We've been laser cutting and engraving for a while now. It's the core of what we do, and it's not going anywhere. But earlier this year we added a UV printer to the shop, and it's opened up a whole category of things we can make that weren't possible before.
This post is a rundown of what UV printing actually is, what we're making with it, and why it might be exactly what you've been looking for.
What UV Printing Does That Laser Engraving Can't
Laser engraving is a subtractive process. The laser removes material to leave a mark. It's permanent and beautiful, but it's monochrome. You get the natural contrast of the material itself.
UV printing is different. It deposits UV-cured ink directly onto a surface in full color, then hardens it instantly with UV light. The result is vibrant, detailed, and permanent. We're talking photorealistic images, gradients, multi-color logos, the works.
It also works on surfaces that a laser can't easily touch: ceramic, glass, coated metal, leather, rigid plastics, and more. If it fits on the print bed, we can probably print on it.
What We're Making With It
Here's a look at what's now available from the shop:
Full-Color Custom Products
Anything that previously had to be single-color can now have your full logo, a photo, or a detailed multicolor design on it. Coasters, signs, small trays, decorative panels — if you've wanted something with actual color on it, this is how we do it.
Laser + UV Combos
This is one of our favorite things to make right now. We'll laser cut or engrave a piece of wood first, then UV print color on top of it. You get the depth and texture of engraving with the visual impact of full color. The two processes layer together in a way that looks genuinely impressive.
Custom Branded Items for Businesses
UV printing is a strong fit for commercial orders. If you need branded coasters, signage, promotional items, or anything with a full-color logo printed in quantity, this is exactly what the machine is built for. Color accuracy is consistent across a full run, which matters when you're printing your brand.
Personalized Photo Gifts
Photos and detailed portraits can now be printed directly onto physical products. Wood panels, acrylic, ceramic. It's a different feel than a photo print on paper — more permanent, more textured, more interesting.
What Makes a Good UV Print Job
UV printing loves high-contrast, well-defined artwork. Photos print best when they're sharp and well-lit. Logos print best as vector files or high-resolution PNGs. We'll let you know if your file needs any cleanup before we run it.
One thing to know: UV ink sits on top of the surface rather than soaking in. On most products this is completely fine and very durable. On items that see a lot of friction or heavy outdoor exposure, laser engraving is still the more permanent option. For anything else, UV printing holds up very well.
See What's Available
Browse our UV printed products collection at wgcreativeco.com to see what's currently in the shop. If you have a specific idea in mind, a product you want printed, or a business order you want to discuss, reach out and we'll talk through what's possible.
For commercial or bulk orders, visit our custom and commercial services page to get a quote.
Your Vision. Precision Built.
