That seems obvious but choosing the right tool for the right job is essential. The starting point is choosing between HSS (High Speed Steel) tools for plastic engraving and carbide tools for metal engraving, then choose the correctly angled tool for the specific job. To complicate matters there are of course different grades of carbide to choose from. The good news is that Gravograph has developed a unique range of tools called TWINCUT that uses a grade of carbide suitable for both metal and plastic engraving. Twincut tools are also unique as they are extremely economical to use: when the tool is worn out you only have to replace the cutting end as opposed to the whole tool. In a very small way, Twincut tools help save the planet!

• Gravograph range of Cutters

Custom jigs are available for a variety of applications. They are designed to hold the item perfectly, which means better, faster and easier engraving - which in turn saves money. Examples of custom jigs include jigs for bangles, mobile phones, iPods, medals, bracelets, pens, watches, rings and many more.

• Gravograph range of jigs

Standard spindles fitted on machines are great for the majority of applications. However when it comes to more specialised work such as metal cutting, hard metal engraving or exceptionally intricate and fine engraving, specialist spindles can make a real difference. High frequency spindles able to rotate at speeds up to 60,000rpm are ideal for metal cutting and also for fine and intricate engraving, whilst high torque motorised spindles are perfect for hard metal engraving. Similarly, collet spindles will greatly assist with metal engraving as well as increase the range of cutting tools your engraving machine can use.

Your machine can only engrave flat items? It may be possible to connect electronic rotating kits that can automatically engrave pens, tankards / trophies or rings. Other connected accessories include automatic plate feeder, vacuum table, automatic tool changer as well as automated lubrication system and swarf extractor.

No doubt your engraving machine came supplied with a standard depth nose to control the engraving depth. But there is a number of other depth noses designed for specific applications that will make engraving life that much easier. Nylon depth noses will significantly reduce scratch marks (or ghosting), swivel noses will accurately follow curved items such as glasses for accurate control of the engraving depth, prismatic noses are designed for jewellery engraving, fixed diamond noses for precise metal engraving, vacuum noses for depth control and swarf extraction, point noses for fine engraving... and the list goes on.

• Gravograph range of Depth noses

An engraving machine is a great tool but it cannot do everything! Equally essential in the arsenal of the professional engraver are the auxiliary machines: bevellers, guillotines, saws and cutter grinders. They of course represent additional investment but experience will tell you that it is money well spent.

• Gravograph range of auxiliary machines

Nobody really wants them but you need them! Specialist lubrication fluids are essential for engraving and cutting aluminium, stainless steel, or glass whilst cleaning fluids and degreasers will remove any trace of use. Other accessories include paints, thinners, glues, oxydising agents, wax sticks, protective tape to name but a few.

• Gravograph range of engraving accessories