How to Laser Engrave Mirror?

Mirrors are everywhere in daily life—from home décor to signage and personalized items. When laser engraving is applied to an aluminum mirror, the reflective surface can be transformed into a clean, matte design with sharp contrast and modern appeal.

In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to laser engrave an aluminum mirror step by step. The process is straightforward, but attention to setup and finishing makes a big difference in the final result. Once mastered, the same workflow can be used for decorative pieces, functional labels, or customized mirror projects.

Machine Used

1. Thunder Bolt 30W
2. See more details about this machine→

Material Needed

1. Aluminum Mirror

Settings

Engraving

1. Speed:500mm/s
2. Power:45%
3. DPI:400

Lay the aluminum mirror flat on the laser bed with the back side facing up.

Make sure the surface is clean and free of dust or fingerprints, and ensure the material is secured so it won’t move during engraving. To protect the mirror surface from scratches, place a soft material—such as a thin cloth or rubber sheet—under the mirror. This prevents any accidental abrasions while positioning or clamping the material.

Open your preferred laser software (I used Lasermaker) and load the clock dial design file. Adjust the size and positioning so it matches the area of your mirror.

Proper focusing is essential for achieving detailed engravings. If your machine supports auto focus, a single click will set the correct distance. If you prefer manual focus, use the focus stick to adjust the laser head until it just touches the surface of the mirror at a perfect vertical angle. Spending an extra moment on accurate focusing will pay off with professional-looking results.

Use the framing (Border) function to check the engraving area. This helps confirm that the design is positioned correctly and won’t exceed the material boundaries.

Stay near the machine while it’s running and watch the cutting and engraving progress. Keep an eye out for excessive smoke, small flame-ups, or any movement of the material that could affect the outcome. Make sure your workspace is well-ventilated, and rely on air assist if available.

After engraving, lightly spray water onto the engraved area and gently wipe it clean.

This removes residue and dust, revealing a crisp, matte engraving against the reflective surface.

Dry the mirror thoroughly. Your laser-engraved aluminum mirror is now complete and ready for use or display.