Download 3D layered lightbox SVG templates for paper, wood, or cast acrylic. Compatible with Glowforge, xTool, and CO₂/diode lasers. If you’re testing a new stock, run a quick LightBurn test grid to lock in speed/power.
Laser cut shadow boxes blend creativity and craftsmanship, adding depth and dimension to any design. Whether you’re crafting gifts or selling finished pieces, ready-to-cut shadow box files deliver clean, repeatable results fast.
Below you’ll find curated shadow box SVGs, a compact supplies list, and a simple step-by-step setup so you can start cutting today and assemble in minutes.
Laser Cut Shadow Box Files: SVGs, Materials & Quick Setup
Pick ready-to-cut files, grab starter tools/materials, and start knocking out real projects on compact lasers (xTool / Glowforge / diode).
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Types of Laser Cut Shadow Boxes
Layered Paper Lightboxes
Multi-layer papercut scenes for deep frames.
Mandala & Geometric
Hypnotic layers, circular and geometric patterns.
Nature & Landscapes
Mountains, forests, city skylines, sunsets.
Animals & Wildlife
Wolves, deer, birds, sea life silhouettes.
Holiday & Seasonal
Christmas, Halloween, Easter, weddings & more.
Frames & Inserts
Deep frames, spacers, display stands & mats.
What Are Laser Cut Shadow Boxes?
A laser cut shadow box is a 3D artwork made from multiple layers of precisely cut materials like wood, acrylic, or cardstock. These layers are stacked together to create a visually stunning depth effect, often illuminated with LED lights for an even more dramatic presentation.
Popular themes for laser cut shadow box templates include:
✔️ Nature-inspired scenes (forests, mountains, animals)
✔️ Holiday & seasonal decorations (Christmas, Halloween, Easter)
✔️ Personalized name shadow boxes (perfect for gifts)
✔️ Fantasy and fairytale designs (castles, unicorns, mermaids)
Whether you’re a hobbyist, artist, or small business owner, laser-cut shadow boxes allow you to craft unique and detailed artwork with precision.
How to Build a Shadow Box
- Pick a layered template (SVG/DXF). If you’re unsure about speed/power, run a small LightBurn test grid first.
- Materials & cutting. Paper 200–250 gsm (or 2–3 mm cast acrylic / 1/8″ basswood). Cut/engrave with Air Assist on and keep optics clean.
- Assembly. Stack layers with spacers — foam tape 2–3 mm or foam board strips 5 mm for depth.
- Diffuser & lighting (optional). Add vellum/acetate as a diffuser; use a USB 5 V LED strip or warm-white fairy lights.
- Frame & finish. Mount in a deep frame (8×8″ / A4), hide the cable, test the light. For paper, prefer a clean single-pass cut at lower power.
LightBurn Test Grid for Shadow Boxes — Free Download
Use the grid to dial settings for paper (200–250 gsm), vellum/acetate diffusers, or thin wood layers. Run on scrap first and record best Speed/Power.
Why Choose Laser Cut Shadow Boxes?
If you love DIY laser cut projects, shadow boxes offer endless creative possibilities. Here’s why they’re so popular:
Easy to Assemble: Many shadow box templates are designed for effortless layering, making them beginner-friendly.
Highly Customizable: You can personalize designs with custom text, names, or unique color schemes.
Versatile Materials: Choose from wood, acrylic, or high-quality paper to match your style.
Perfect Gifts & Decor: 3D layered shadow boxes make fantastic personalized gifts or elegant home decor pieces.
Looking for premium-quality shadow box files? Explore laser cut shadow box templates at Creative Fabrica and bring your designs to life!
Shadow Box Supplies
Need a custom shadow box / lightbox SVG?
Get a layered scene sized to your frame — fast turnaround, commercial use ok.
Tip: share frame size (8×8″ / A4), number of layers, paper weight 200–250 gsm, spacer depth (foam tape 2–3 mm), and whether you’ll use LED strip or fairy lights.
How to Make a Laser Cut Shadow Box
Creating a DIY shadow box requires just a few materials and a cutting machine. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Download a Shadow Box Template
Choose a high-quality shadow box cutting file in SVG, DXF, or PDF format.
Step 2: Prepare Your Materials
Select your material (wood, acrylic, or paper)
Adjust the settings of your laser cutting machine
Make sure you have proper ventilation if working with wood or acrylic
Step 3: Cut & Assemble the Layers
Laser cut each layer following the template instructions
Stack and glue the layers carefully for a perfect 3D effect
(Optional) Add LED lights to enhance depth and detail
Need inspiration? Check out more DIY laser cut projects at Creative Fonts Crafts for amazing design ideas!
Creative Fabrica — Best Shadow Box SVGs
Most-loved lightbox templates and layered scenes.
Tip: CF runs frequent promos (e.g., “first 10 downloads free”). Grab them while they’re live.
Where to Find the Best Laser Cut Shadow Box Files
If you’re looking for professional shadow box templates, the best place to find high-quality designs is Creative Fabrica’s Laser Cut Shadow Boxes Collection.
Why Choose These Designs?
✔️ Instant Downloads – Start cutting immediately!
✔️ High-Quality Vector Files – SVG, DXF, and PDF formats included
✔️ Unique & Exclusive Designs – Stand out with original artwork
✔️ Commercial Use Licenses – Perfect for selling finished products
Whether you’re making a personalized gift or launching a small business in laser-cut crafts, these files provide everything you need for a stunning 3D layered shadow box.
Laser Starter Kit
A mini kit for your first 10–15 projects: safety, fixtures, measuring.
Tools
Materials
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Shadow Box FAQ
What paper weight works best for shadow boxes?
Most builders use 200–250 gsm cardstock for clean cuts and rigid layers. Heavier paper (300 gsm) is possible but may need lower power and slower speed.
How deep should the frame be?
1–1.75″ (25–45 mm) deep shadow box frames work well. For 6–8 layered paper designs, 8×8″ or A4 deep frames are common.
What lighting should I use?
USB 5 V warm-white LED (strip or fairy lights 2700–3000 K). Add vellum/acetate as a diffuser for smooth glow.
Any cutting tips for paper?
Keep optics clean, use Air Assist, and aim for a single-pass clean cut at lower power. If unsure, run a quick LightBurn test grid first.
FAQ
What thickness of plywood/basswood should I start with?
For diode/CO₂ start with 1/16–1/8″ (1.5–3 mm) basswood/balsa; laser-grade plywood 2–3 mm is a great “clean-cut” thickness.
How do I avoid scorch marks and yellowing?
Mask the surface with transfer paper, turn on Air Assist, and increase speed when you have enough power to maintain the cut.
What’s a quick way to dial in settings?
Run a test grid (power/speed + focus step) and keep a printed “quick card” for each common material & thickness.
Can a diode laser engrave acrylic?
Clear/white acrylic engraves poorly (diodes ≈450 nm). Black/colored cast acrylic engraves much better; or use a paint mask trick.
What glue should I use for layers and bases?
CA glue + activator for small parts; PVA/contact cement for large flats. For acrylic: acrylic cement (Weld-On 3/4) or CA gel.
Is PVC or vinyl safe to laser cut?
No. Avoid PVC and chlorinated vinyls — they can release corrosive and harmful gases and damage your machine. Stick to laser-safe materials like cast acrylic, laser-grade plywood, and paper/card.
Cast vs extruded acrylic — which should I use?
Use cast acrylic for most laser cutting and engraving. It cuts cleaner and engraves to a frosty finish. Extruded acrylic tends to melt more and gives less contrast.
What is kerf and how do I get tight-fitting joints?
Kerf is the width of material removed by the laser. Run a kerf test on your exact material/settings (typical ~0.05–0.20 mm), then apply a kerf offset in software or adjust slot widths for a snug fit.
Start Your Laser Cut Shadow Box Project Today!
Laser cut shadow boxes are a fun and creative way to bring depth and beauty to your projects. With the right shadow box templates, you can create breathtaking designs for gifts, home decor, or even selling handmade crafts.
Ready to start? Browse the best laser cut shadow box templates and create something truly unique today!
For more DIY laser cut projects and creative inspiration, visit Creative Fonts Crafts – your go-to resource for all things craft & design!
