Raised Letter Engraving For Your Luxury Pen Box

After crafting luxury writing instruments for several years, many of my customers inquired about the possibility of engraving some of the exotic wood pens that I create and offer on my web site. I answered this frequent request by researching a variety of engraving techniques and related tools necessary to accomplish it. My research revealed that a greater number of options were available by engraving the wood pen box rather than the pen itself. The balance of this article describes what raised letter engraving is, the approaches to accomplishing it, and a few engraving source ideas.

Raised letter engraving is described as the process of removing material from the item to be engraved, in this case wood, to reveal letters or a design that protrudes above the surface. This method of engraving can be accomplished by hand carving or a rotary engraving machine. The method I use, described below, is the rotary method.

The rotary method of engraving involves the use of a computer numerical controlled (CNC) machining tool. This tool moves a cutting head, typically a router, in a three dimensional or X, Y, Z axis. The path the cutting head follows is designed in a software program and is translated into a CNC machine code, often referred to as G-Code. The advantages of this method over hand carving are many. They include time, precision, intricate detail and the ability to preview a variety of design changes before actually making cuts in the wood.

Raised letter engraving is not typically a process for the do-it-yourselfer unless you have developed hand carving skills and have several hours available to dedicate to the job. The investment in machinery and software is also prohibitive and probably not justified for the occasional CNC project. For that reason, I suggest you use your favorite internet search engine to locate a business that can provide this service for you. Search words that will likely yield good results include engraving, sign making, or wood carving. You may want to want to view a few samples of engraving on pen boxes to better understand the various engraving methods used for wood items.

Raised letter engraving is one of several methods used to decorate and personalize a variety of gift items. As described, it results in a design or letters protruding above the surface of the engraved item. Results are beautiful, even stunning when done properly. Consider this decorative option to make a lasting impression and reflection of your thoughtfulness.