1. Can I engrave any type of wooden skateboard?
Yes, but hardwoods like maple and bamboo engrave better. Softer woods can burn too quickly. The Alpha MK2 can handle most wooden finishes—just test settings first.
2. Will laser engraving affect the ride or performance of the board?
No, as long as you don’t engrave too deep. Surface-level engraving (1 pass at 100% power) only etches the outer layer. It won’t weaken or alter the flex of the board.
3. Do I need a rotary roller for curved boards?
Not necessarily. Most surfboard skateboards are flat enough to engrave without a rotary attachment. But if you're doing the underside where the tail curves upward, consider rotating the board or using jigs to level it.
4. How do I create G-code for my skateboard design?
Use LightBurn or LaserGRBL. Import your artwork (SVG, PNG, etc.), scale it to fit the board dimensions, and save it as a G-code file. Then transfer it to your SD card or virtual disk on the Alpha MK2.
5. How do I prevent charring or smoke stains on the wood?
Enable air assist and use high-speed settings (10,000 mm/min). You can also mask the board with painter’s tape before engraving, then peel it off for a clean result.
6. What if I mess up the engraving—can I fix it?
You can't undo engraving, but you can sand down light burns or fill mistakes with wood filler. For serious errors, flip the board and engrave the other side—or use it as a prototype!
