FAQs

What kind of projects is your laser cutting studio best suited for?

1

We do a lot of prototypes and small runs where good design and tactility really matter. Typical projects include:

  • Prototypes for packaging

  • Signage and small wayfinding elements

  • Paper postcards and print pieces with laser-cut details

  • Wedding decor such as table signs, seating boards and welcome signage

  • Wine glasses and glassware for restaurants and events

  • Gifts and custom pieces for companies (events, merch, client presents)

If you’re not sure whether your idea fits, send it to us if we can’t do it in-house, we often know someone who can.

Which materials can you laser cut?

2

We regularly laser cut a wide range of sheet materials, including:

  • Wood and wood veneer

  • Acrylic

  • Fabric

  • Leather

  • Paper, passepartout and pressboard

  • Cork

For unusual materials, we’ll usually ask for a data sheet and a bit of extra material so we can test safely first (see next question).

Can I bring my own material?

3

Yes – you can bring your own material.

If you do, please:

  • Provide a data sheet or clear material specification

  • Bring extra material for testing, so we can dial in the settings and make sure it’s safe for the machine and for you

If a material isn’t suitable, we’ll tell you and usually suggest alternatives (for example, acrylic instead of PVC). It’s standard best practice in laser cutting to avoid unsafe plastics and test unknown materials first.

Are there materials you don’t work with?

4

For safety and machine-health reasons we don’t process chlorine-based plastics such as PVC, and we also avoid certain plastics like polycarbonate (PC) that can emit harmful fumes or give poor results under a CO₂ laser.

If you’re unsure what a material is, we’ll usually ask for a data sheet and perform a small test cut. If it’s not safe or doesn’t look good, we’ll say so and look for better options.

Which materials can you laser engrave?

5

In general we can engrave many more materials than we can safely cut.

We can engrave many different surfaces, including:

  • Wood and wood veneer

  • Acrylic and other plastics that are safe for CO₂ lasers

  • Glass and ceramic

  • Fabric, leather, cork

  • Coated or painted metals, anodised aluminium

  • Paper, pressboard

Because every material behaves differently under the laser, testing is crucial – especially with glass. Different glass compositions (and treatments like tempered vs. non-tempered) can react very differently, so if we don’t already have a reference for your specific item, we’ll always do a small test first.

If you have something special you’d like engraved, tell us what it is (and if possible, send a data sheet or spare sample). 

How big can you cut or engrave?

6

Our Epilog Fusion Pro 48 has a working area of 1219 × 914 × 311 mm.

That’s large enough for most signage, panels and product parts we create. For pieces that are larger than the bed, we often work in sections and assemble them afterwards.

Can you engrave bottles, glasses and cylindrical objects?

7

Yes. We have a rotary attachment, which allows us to engrave bottles, glasses and many cylindrical forms.

If you’re planning a project on round objects (for example wine glasses for a restaurant), send us a photo or sample and we’ll confirm what’s possible.

What file formats do you accept for laser cutting and engraving?

8

For cutting and vector engraving we work with vector files such as:

  • .ai (Adobe Illustrator)

  • .eps

  • .pdf (vector-based)

For image engraving we recommend high-resolution image files so that fine details come through cleanly.

If you’re not sure whether your file is ready, send it to us – we’re happy to check it and suggest adjustments. This is very common in laser workflows and helps avoid surprises later.

I only have a rough idea or sketch. Can you still help?

9

Yes – absolutely.

IRIX is a design studio first and a laser studio second. You don’t need a finished CAD drawing to start. A rough sketch, reference photos or a simple description is often enough.

We can:

  • Help you refine the concept

  • Prepare production-ready files

  • Build a prototype first, then move into a larger run once you’re happy

Where are you based and who do you work with?

10

We’re based in Windisch, Switzerland.

We work with:

  • Local clients in the wider Zurich / Aargau area

  • Brands, agencies and companies throughout Europe who need design-led laser cutting and engraving

If a project goes beyond what we can do in-house, we tap into a trusted network of partners so the final result still feels like one coherent piece.

Do you ship? Can I pick up my order?

11

Yes:

  • We ship worldwide – we’ll choose a suitable shipping method based on size, weight and destination

  • You’re also welcome to pick up your order at our studio in Windisch if that’s easier for you

Shipping options and costs are part of the quote so there are no surprises.

What are your typical lead times? Can you handle rush orders?

12

Our typical lead time for a laser project is around 1–2 weeks once the design and materials are confirmed.

  • Standard projects: usually completed within 1–2 weeks

  • Rush projects: if something really rushes, we’ll always try to fit you in – it depends on our schedule and the complexity of the job

In the laser industry, lead times of a few days to a couple of weeks are common, depending on complexity and workload, so your expectations of 1–2 weeks are realistic and competitive.

If you have a fixed deadline (event, opening, launch), tell us upfront so we can plan around it.

Do you have a minimum order or minimum price?

13

We’re happy to produce just one single piece for you.

To keep things practical, our minimum billing amount is 85 CHF (excl. VAT). That covers setup, machine time and handling – a common model in laser cutting, where many shops use a minimum invoice value rather than a minimum quantity.

Larger quantities will usually give you a better price per piece, but we’re very used to prototypes and small runs

Can we start with a prototype and then do a bigger run?

14

Yes – that’s often the best way to work.

A typical flow is:

  1. You send us your idea, references and files

  2. We choose materials and produce one or a few prototypes

  3. You test them in context (on the bar, in the box, in the space)

  4. We adjust if needed and then run the full quantity

This reduces risk and helps you get internal buy-in before committing to a larger order.

Are there projects you’re not the right fit for?

15

We’re not an industrial metal job shop or a high-volume commodity producer.

We’re usually not the right fit for:

  • Large-scale industrial parts in thick metal

  • Huge mass-production where price per piece must be as low as possible

  • Projects that require cutting known unsafe materials (PVC and other chlorine-based plastics, certain problematic plastics)

We are a great fit if you:

  • Care about design, tactility and details

  • Need small runs, prototypes or special editions

  • Want to collaborate on the idea, not just “upload file → get parts”

How do I start a laser project with you?

16

The best way is to send us an email: hello@irixdesign.ch

Include:

  • A short description of your idea and what it’s for

  • Rough quantities and desired timing

  • Any sketches, reference images or existing files

  • Info about materials if you have a preference

From there, we’ll get a clear picture, ask any missing questions and then come back with options for materials, timing and budget. For many projects, we’ll suggest starting with a prototype so you can see and feel the piece before committing to a full run.