Create Durable Metal Bookmarks with a Fibre Laser

Aug 25, 2025

For readers and book lovers, creating personalised metal bookmarks is a unique and lasting way to leave your mark on the page. Unlike paper or plastic options, metal bookmarks are sleek, durable, and built to last. Whether you’re gifting them, selling them online, or simply making them for your reading adventures, laser-engraving metal bookmarks is a fun and rewarding project.

This guide covers everything you need to know to make high-quality metal bookmarks using a fibre laser engraver—what materials to use, design tips, engraving techniques, and why OMTech’s laser systems are a great choice for small businesses, hobbyists, and creative professionals in Australia.

Why Use a Fibre Laser for Metal Bookmark Engraving?

Metal bookmarks demand fine detail and a long-lasting finish—this is precisely where fibre lasers excel. Fibre laser engraving is the go-to method for marking metal quickly and precisely. Unlike CO₂ lasers (which work well on wood, acrylic, and leather), fibre lasers are built for metals like stainless steel, aluminium, brass, copper, and titanium.

Rather than simply printing or burning the surface, fibre lasers create a textured, permanent etching. This makes them ideal for bookmarks, which are frequently handled and need to withstand long-term use without fading.

Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bookmarks

Not all metals are equal when it comes to laser engraving. Here are some of the best materials for producing high-quality bookmarks:

Stainless Steel – Extremely durable, corrosion-resistant, and produces sharp, high-contrast engravings.
Aluminium – Lightweight and engraves well; results can vary slightly depending on the alloy.
Brass – Warm golden tone with vintage appeal and excellent engraving clarity.
Titanium – Tough and lightweight; with the right settings, it can also create colour effects.
Anodised Aluminium – Pre-coloured with a protective coating; produces excellent contrast without deep engraving.

Each metal has its own aesthetic and functional advantages. Stainless steel and anodised aluminium are two of the most popular options due to their strength, affordability, and clean engraving results.

Design Tips for Laser-Engraved Metal Bookmarks

Choosing your metal is only part of the process—the design you engrave is just as important. Here are some creative design ideas and technical tips to help you create standout bookmarks:

Names and Quotes
Short quotes, book excerpts, or personalised messages are timeless and meaningful. Use elegant fonts to add character.
Minimalist Line Art
Clean, fine linework is where laser engraving shines. Try geometric patterns, simple florals, or subtle framing elements.
Logos and Branding
If you're creating bookmarks as merchandise or promotional giveaways, adding your logo or company name gives them real marketing power.
QR Codes
For a modern touch, you can add scannable codes that link to websites, reading lists, or a personal message. Great for authors, publishers, and online shops.
Cutouts and Custom Shapes
If your machine supports cutting in addition to engraving, consider adding small cutout shapes or initials to make each bookmark one-of-a-kind.

Use vector files like SVG, DXF, or AI to ensure clean, scalable engravings.

How to Laser Engrave Metal Bookmarks: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Set Up Your Design

Import and scale your artwork in software like LightBurn or EZCAD. Match the size of your bookmark blank and leave margins to prevent clipping at the edges.

Step 2: Clean the Surface
Use isopropyl alcohol to wipe the metal blank. This removes oil, fingerprints, or dust that could interfere with the engraving.

Step 3: Secure the Material
Fix your bookmark firmly to the laser bed using a jig or magnet. This is especially important for batch engraving, where movement can cause misalignment.

Step 4: Adjust Laser Settings
Different metals and coatings require different laser settings. As a starting point for a 30W fibre laser on stainless steel or anodised aluminium:

Power: 30–45%
Speed: 1000–2000 mm/s
Line spacing: 0.05 mm

Always run a test pass on a spare piece before committing to a full run.

Step 5: Focus the Laser
Use autofocus (if available) to align the beam correctly with the surface of the material. Accurate focus ensures clean lines and sharp detail.

Step 6: Start the Engraving Process
Send the job to your OMTech fibre laser and begin engraving. A basic pattern or quote will usually finish in under one minute.

Step 7: Clean and Inspect
Once engraving is complete, clean the piece again to remove any residue or debris. If you're working with brass or copper, a polish can enhance the visual contrast.

Why the OMTech Galvo 20W Fibre Laser is a Great Fit

If you’re aiming to make premium metal bookmarks—whether for a creative side hustle or a boutique gift business—OMTech’s Galvo 20W Fibre Laser with Autofocus is a versatile and high-performance solution. Here’s what makes it ideal:

Autofocus Technology – Automatically adjusts height for efficient and accurate engraving.
Compact Build – At just 68 x 34 x 71 cm, it’s perfect for small workspaces, home studios, or portable setups.
Fast Marking Speed – Reaches up to 10,000 mm/s, great for processing large batches.
High Engraving Precision – 0.01 mm accuracy allows you to engrave fine lines, intricate details, and small text.
Software Compatibility – Works with EZCAD2 and EZCAD3, giving you complete design flexibility.
Flexible Power Options – Available in 20W, 30W, or 50W to suit different engraving depths and metals.

Make Lasting Impressions with Laser Precision

Laser-engraved bookmarks are a beautiful fusion of creativity and practicality. Whether you’re making them for readers, collectors, or your own brand, they offer a professional finish that stands the test of time.

With the right material, a clean design, and a reliable laser like OMTech’s fibre series, you can produce one-of-a-kind bookmarks that delight every time they’re used.

Whether you're crafting a thoughtful gift or building a product line for your business, OMTech has the tools to make your ideas a reality—accurately, efficiently, and with lasting impact.

Ready to start engraving like a pro? Explore OMTech’s fibre laser range today and discover the perfect machine for your workshop