Why Your Logo Doesn’t Stamp Clearly: Design Tips for Perfect Engraving

Ordering a custom metal stamp is an exciting step toward building a strong brand identity. But if your stamp isn't producing clear imprints, your logo design may be the problem. In this guide, we’ll explain why certain designs don’t work well and share professional tips for preparing your logo for engraving — so your custom stamp creates perfect, clean impressions every time.

 

1. Avoid Low-Resolution Images

The most common issue we see is customers sending pixelated images or low-quality screenshots of their logos.

Why it’s a problem:
Laser engraving and CNC milling machines require precise vector lines to create accurate cuts. If your image is blurry, the engraver has to guess the shape, which leads to distorted or shallow results.

Solution:
Always send a high-resolution vector file, preferably in SVG, AI, PDF, or EPS format. These formats preserve the shapes and allow perfect scaling.

 

2. Thin Lines = Weak Impressions

Logos with very thin lines or tiny details may look great on screens but don’t translate well onto physical materials like metal or leather.

Why it’s a problem:
Thin lines can be too shallow after engraving or may wear out quickly with use, especially if the stamp is used with heat or force.

Solution:

• Ensure all lines are at least 0.2 mm thick
• Avoid tiny decorative flourishes
• Simplify the design for durability

 

3. Inverted Designs Don’t Work for Stamps

Sometimes, logos are designed with light lines on dark backgrounds (inverted or negative space). These can be hard to convert into a 3D engraving surface.

Why it’s a problem:
The stamp surface needs to leave a raised imprint. If the logo is inverted, it may result in unreadable or reversed impressions.

Solution:
Make sure your logo is designed with positive space — dark elements represent raised parts, and the background should remain blank.

 

4. Don’t Scale Down Without Adjusting the Design

Trying to fit a complex logo into a small stamp (e.g. 0,3–0,5 cm) often causes loss of detail.

Why it’s a problem:
What looks detailed at 5 cm won’t be visible at 1.5 cm. Fonts may become illegible, and lines may merge.

Solution:
Create a simplified version of your logo for small stamps. Focus on the core symbol or initials and reduce fine details.

 

5. Clearly Communicate the Use Case

Different materials require different engraving depths and tolerances.

Why it’s important:
Stamping leather or soap needs deeper engraving than metal or wood. Knowing the material helps us prepare the right file and engraving style.

Solution:
When sending your design, always let us know:

• Material the stamp will be used on
• Size of the desired stamp
• Any preferences for style (bold, minimalist, etc.)

 

Need Help? We Can Prepare Your Logo for You

If you don’t have a ready-to-use file — don’t worry. Our design team at MyStamps.store can optimize or recreate your logo for engraving. We don’t design logos from scratch, but we’ll make sure your image is production-ready.

Your stamp design is just as important as the engraving tool itself. With the right file format, appropriate line thickness, and clear communication, your logo can leave clean, professional, and long-lasting impressions.

Upload your logo and order your custom metal stamp today — and let us help you bring your brand to life, one stamp at a time.