The Craft of Personalised Wood Engraving: From Design to Delivery

The Craft of Personalised Wood Engraving: From Design to Delivery

Personalised wood engraving adds character, meaning, and individuality to everyday items — turning simple wooden objects into thoughtful gifts or keepsakes. Whether it’s a cheeseboard, valet tray, or key rack, engraving adds a layer of craftsmanship that makes each item truly unique. In this article, we take you behind the scenes of how engraving works, from the initial design to the moment it’s delivered to your door.

Why Choose Personalised Wood Gifts?

  • They’re meaningful – personalised with a name, date, or message
  • They’re useful – not just decorative, but practical for everyday life
  • They’re durable – wooden gifts can last for decades with care
  • They’re unique – no two are the same, especially with grain variation and custom engraving

Step 1: Choosing the Product

Engraving can be applied to a wide range of wood items, including:

  • Cheeseboards and serving boards
  • Valet trays and desk organisers
  • Key racks and coat hooks
  • Memory boxes and keepsake chests
  • Phone stands and docking stations

Step 2: Preparing the Engraving Design

  • Choose from pre-designed templates
  • Enter names, dates, initials or short messages
  • Select fonts and layout preferences
  • Add optional icons or layout adjustments

Each design is laid out digitally and aligned to suit the size and shape of the product.

Step 3: Laser Engraving the Wood

Once approved, the design is engraved using a CO₂ laser, which burns the design into the wood.

  • No ink or paint – permanent and fade-resistant
  • Fine detail – perfect for intricate fonts or symbols
  • Natural finish – complements the grain and tone of the wood

Common woods include:

  • Cedar - Red/white with aroma
  • Beech – pale, crisp and clean
  • Walnut – dark and premium
  • Maple – pale and clear

Step 4: Finishing and Packaging

  • Items may be sanded, brushed, or oiled after engraving
  • Food-safe oils used for cheeseboards
  • Packaged using recyclable materials for safe delivery

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I preview the engraving? – yes our customisation allows preview on the fly.

Is engraving done by hand? – The engraving is done by laser, but all design prep, alignment, and finishing is manual.

Does it work on painted or varnished wood? – Clear finishes are fine, but painted surfaces can affect detail quality.

Why It Makes the Perfect Gift

Reason Description
Personal Adds meaning without being overly sentimental
Versatile Great for weddings, birthdays, retirements
Tactile Engraving can be seen and felt
Timeless Wood suits any home or setting
British-finished Supports UK craftsmanship

Conclusion: From Blank Board to Bespoke Keepsake

Engraved wood gifts combine natural materials with modern technology to create something truly lasting. From a rough wooden board to a polished, laser-cut item bearing someone’s name or message — the transformation is both practical and personal.

If you're looking for a gift that feels crafted, useful, and one-of-a-kind, there’s nothing quite like engraved wood.

Written by Jake Boyle
Founder of Cathcart Elliot Shoe Trees UK — passionate about quality shoes, shoe care and craftsmanship.
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