text: Custom Rotary (Drag) Engraving
  Bring/send us your own material for engraving! We're happy to rush jobs when needed, too. We reserve the right to adjust pricing based on the difficulty of engraving and can also help source materials if you describe what you're looking for. We'll contact you to confirm that all the details are correct.
  During mechanical engraving, the workpiece is clamped down while a milling cutter glides across the surface. Material is removed by the rotary motion of the milling cutter. Different shapes can be milled out of most material. Layered plastic materials can be engraved in this way as well as metal surfaces, which allow for increased contrast by adding color to the deep machined lettering or decorations.
  Rotary engraving is a popular method for engraving a wide range of materials. These engraving machines use specialized carbide bits to achieve precise depths in a variety of materials. Rotary engraving provides a clean and smooth engraved mark.
  There are some limitations associated with the rotary engraving method. First, rotary engraving systems typically require vector based files (line art) to create an engraving path for the machine to follow. This means rotary engravers are largely used for text and basic shapes with limited fonts. A second limitation of rotary engraving is the pressure or stress that can be put on an item when engraved. This usually means an item that is to be engraved such as a handheld radio needs to be clamped in place to allow the machine to engrave. This also requires the engraver to press down on the item to achieve the proper depth. This can cause stress on the material leading to cracking or an uneven mark.
  However, rotary engravers do have some advantages over their laser counterparts. For one, rotary engravers do a great job of producing smooth and deep finishes needed for paint filling metals or plastics. Fume extraction is another plus, as these engravers have no odor and pose no risk of fire or gas release. Engraving material is also an area where rotary engravers excel, as this family of engravers does not require special plastics or acrylics and can engrave into almost any surface. Rotary systems often operate with materials that are less expensive and easier to process, and can engrave simple characters into plastics faster than laser machines.
  Frequently Asked Questions
  What's your production lead time for custom orders?
  For items listed in our collections on this site, we complete most orders within 7 working days of invoice payment and artwork approval.
  Can I bring in my own item to be decorated?
  We do not accept external items for decoration, with two exceptions:
  - Plates for perpetual plaques and some flat metal plates
  - Large volume orders for which 5% extra blank items are provided
  This policy significantly reduces setup costs and ensures each design or layout fits the intended product perfectly. It ensures you'll receive exactly what you expected, as quickly as possible!
  May I pick up instead of paying for shipping?
  Absolutely! You'll see an option for free local pickup at checkout. When your order production is completed, you'll receive an email asking you to make an appointment for pickup.
  Please note that some special orders require an additional shipping fee so that we can get the blank inventory shipped to our workshop.
  Do you offer discounts for higher quantities?
  Absolutely! Contact us for a custom quote if you want something made locally here in Baltimore. If you're looking for a more economical option for an extremely large order, we also work with a large network of manufacturers. You can view some of these options at swag.summitimprints.com, or reach out to email@example.com if you'd like us to source something specific you have in mind.
  Will you send a proof?
  We're happy to create mockups after you've placed your order. To protect our design team's time, we do not provide mockups before an order is placed. However, if we're unable to provide a design that matches your expectations, we'll offer a 100% refund.
  We typically provide digital mockups via email within two business days of invoice payment. If you'd like a sample created before a bulk order, just let us know and we'll work out the details!
  How do I tell you what design/text to use?
  If you're buying online, just use the upload and instructions form on the product page. You can also email files and text to firstname.lastname@example.org or upload using our our artwork requirements page. On that page you'll also find our tips on how to ensure you don't get charged more than necessary! We also encourage selecting a font from Google Fonts.
  What's your refund policy?
  Please visit our refund policy page to read the full details of how to return an order.
  How do I talk to an actual person?
  Summit Imprints doesn't use AI chatbots or foreign call centers, so if it seems like you're talking to a member of our team, that means you actually are! There are several ways you can reach us directly:
  - The absolute easiest way to reach us is to use our contact form or quote request. These forms make sure we get most of the information we need from you right at the start.
  - We also prefer emails to email@example.com. Having order details in writing significantly decreases any chance of misunderstandings or typos!
  - To guarantee one-on-one assistance, please make a virtual or in-person appointment using our scheduling system.
  - During business hours you can reach us at 1-667-IMPRINT (1-667-467-7468).
  - The chat bubble in the lower right of your screen has some quick answers. If none of those work for you, enter a detailed question and we'll get back to you ASAP. If it's after business hours, be sure to fill in your email address so we can follow up as soon as we're back in the office.
  What countries do you ship to?
  We currently only ship to the United States. To enquire about shipping to a different destination, please contact us.