Paint & Marking Supplies

Paint and Marking Supplies for Laser Engraving and Metal Marking

Expand your capabilities and creativity with our collection of paints and marking supplies for laser engraving and marking. Whether you're looking to mark on metals or add color to your engravings with paint fill, we've got what it takes to get the job done. Choose from pastes, sprays, or pens for your next project.

Johnson Plastics Plus is proud to be one of the metal marking suppliers with fast shipping (U.S.). This fast shipping applies to sprays, pastes, paints, and engraving consumables.

Types of Paint and Marking Supplies

Engraving Paints

Engraving paint fills are paints specifically formulated to stick to various laser-engravable surfaces. These paints may come in pen, bottle, or jar. These fills are perfect for wood and acrylic or stone!

Oxidizing Solutions

Our collection of marking supplies include oxidizing solutions so you can add contrast when marking on metal materials.

Marking Pastes and Sprays

Marking pastes and sprays, like CerMark and LaserBond, are designed to create durable marks on metals. These products are applied to the surface before engraving and bond with the material under the laser's heat, resulting in a crisp, clear mark.

Best Marking Sprays vs. Paste for CO₂ Lasers

Sprays vs. pastes can offer different benefits from each other. Marking sprays deliver faster application, are ideal for larger surfaces and can produce a more even coating when applied correctly. Pastes can yield less product waste, are ideal for smaller surface areas and precision work, and often create richer darker, marks on stainless.

Sublimation Sprays

Sublimation sprays can be used to turn many types of materials and surfaces into a sublimatable item!

Metal Marking & Engraving Guide: Recommended Equipment, Consumables, and Best Practices

When marking metal, whether for industrial nameplates, UDI requirements, firearms compliance, or premium product branding, choosing the right equipment and consumables is key. Below is a comprehensive overview tailored for professionals looking to maximize durability, clarity, and consistency in their marks.

Recommended Equipment for Anodized Aluminum Marking

• Fiber lasers
• Rotary engraving systems

If we were asked to rank top metal marking systems for durability we'd include rotary engraving, CO2 and metal marking paste at the top of the list.

Best Materials for Detailed Raster Engraving

To achieve tight detail and smooth shading:

• Anodized aluminum exceptional for raster work
• Laserable brass and bronze
• High-contrast metal marking sprays for CO₂ systems

Marking Solutions Compliant With FDA/UDI Requirements

For medical device etching:

• Choose fiber laser systems capable of producing permanent, non-removable identification
• Pair with dark, high-contrast marking sprays when using CO₂.
• Opt for UDI-compliant data matrix marking tools for validated workflows
• Always refer to local and federal code requirements

Best Practices for Dark Marks on Stainless Steel

To achieve deep, durable dark marks:

• Use fiber lasers for oxidation-based darkening.
• For CO₂ systems, apply high-quality black metal marking paste.
• Ensure consistent surface cleaning—finger oils can cause uneven tones.
• When applying metal marking sprays and pastes, maintain smooth, even passes and correct power-to-speed settings.

Alternatives to CO2 laser for metal marking

• If you're not getting the durability or contrast you need from a CO₂ system, consider fiber, YAG, or UV lasers.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Marks Consistent

• Clean lenses and mirrors regularly
• Shake metal marking sprays thoroughly before each use
• Store pastes properly to maintain viscosity
• Calibrate focal distance often, especially for bulk production
• Keep materials free of dust, oils, or polishing residues

Alternatives to Chemical Etching for Steel

For users wanting to avoid hazardous chemicals, some eco-friendly metal marking consumables include:

• Low-VOC metal marking sprays
• Water-based marking pastes
• Non-solvent cleaning wipes for prep

FAQs

What are the best paints and marking supplies for laser engraving?

CerMark and LaserBond are our preferred brands for laser marking supplies. We also carry a variety of paints, including markers, that are ideal for use with your laser engraver.

What materials can be laser engraved?

Laser engraving opens the door to several material options including woods, acrylics, plastics, and metals. Explore our laser engraving sheet materials and blanks.

What are the best bulk marking solutions for industrial nameplates?

For high-volume operations, pre-coated aluminum nameplates are a good solution.

How do I meet metal marking for firearms compliance (U.S.)?

When considering metal marking for firearms compliance (U.S.), refer to Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) marking standards.

How to avoid ghosting on anodized aluminum?

To prevent ghosting, use the correct focus high, reduce power or increase speed, and ensure surface is clean and oil free. Also ensure your surface is covered evenly and fully dried before engraving if using a marking spray or paste. These adjustments should help as ghosting often occur when setting or coverage is insufficient.