How to Laser Cut a Vinyl Sticker - Sample Decal Design File Available

Don't have a traditional sticker cutter? Learn how to use your xTool, Glowforge or other brand of laser to make vinyl decals. As with any material you cut, you need to evaluate if it can be cut or is safe to cut. There is laser safe vinyl available, but we'd recommend checking the manufacturer specs to be sure. We also always recommend using a good exhaust. We state in the video that this can be done for a one-off project, but we'd definitely recommend purchasing a vinyl cutter if you plan on doing any kind of production work. We just wanted to show that it was possible.
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[@smedleyworks]

As with any material you cut, you need to evaluate if it can be cut or is safe to cut. We also always recommend using a good exhaust. There is laser safe vinyl available, but we'd recommend checking the manufacturer specs to be sure. We state in the video that this can be done for a one-off project, but we'd definitely recommend purchasing a vinyl cutter if you plan on doing any kind of production work. We just wanted to show that it was possible.

[@ajvaldez]

I am finding it hard to find non pvc vinyl that I can buy, do you know any places

[@padcraftingvideosandfiles8013]

I'm sure someone else will pipe in on this: be sure to specify that it's laser safe vinyl. Regular vinyl releases chlorine gas when heated. In fact, many laser manufacturers specifically warn against laser engraving/cutting vinyl or PVC products. Chlorine gas is not only toxic in miniscule amounts, but can corrode metal in an enclosed area. Please don't do this unless the vinyl is specifically labeled as laser safe.

[@aycayirmili3304]

I was wondering about this since I don't have a proper ventilation. Thank you for the warning.

[@billymacktexasdetective5827]

I got out my Silhouette SD (ancient, I know) today for a quick little one off project, only to find out that I could no longer connect to it. I had updated my computer since the last time I used it and that meant connectivity was permanently gone...
Found this video, fired up my laser and took care of business. Thanks!

[@erikrummel6277]

I had been searching this and couldn’t find a good explanation, so thank you!!!!!!

[@daimyo2k]

Great video guys!! Thank you!

[@JayAdan]

No mention of the fact that typical vinyl is likely to release toxic vapors when cut with a laser that are bad for both you and your cutter. Laser safe vinyl is available but you have to look for it specifically.

[@Enrique-Garcia]

So using the laser to cut the vinyl leaves the edges pliable and gummy, which is probably why it sticks to the transfer sheet. Would it help to let the vinyl cool before applying the transfer sheet?
Also, does the laser leave any burn marks on the vinyl like it does on wood or paper? Thanks.

[@David6ft6]

Vinyl is made with PVC and is no safe to cut with a laser. It produces a deadly gas and can mess up your laser engraver.

[@lookyh]

laser safe non PVC vinyl is now easily avaiable but very valid commnts about PVC not being suitable.

[@BryanNWright]

the chlorine gas from the vinyl will rust your laser out pretty quick so even with exhaust you are not super safe and I would never cut vinyl on my laser unless I knew for 100% that it was designed for use in a laser.