Confirm the artwork submission requirements with the vendor for the type of project you are producing. Be sure to ask the vendor about minimum typography font size, and the weight and image resolution desired. Find out the file type preferred for your artwork as well. Most vendors will be able to digitize PDFs or high resolution image files such as JPG or PNG.
Set the page size and margins in your graphics software to the size given by the laser etching vendor. If you do not have graphics software, commercial products like PhotoShop or free open source equivalents like Gimp, GimpShop and Paint.net would be excellent choices for this sort of project. Note that Paint.net is not the same as Windows' Paint program that comes bundled with PC computers.
Import photographs and illustrations into your page layout by following the specific steps for the graphics program you are using. Resize and crop, as necessary. Adjust the contrast of the images to be somewhat higher than normal but not so much you lose gray tones.
Add typography to the layout if desired, making sure to keep it within the size and weight guidelines suggested by the vendor.
Save your graphics file to the type your software uses and to the type the vendor requested that you submit.
Print the file you plan to send to the vendor on quality photo paper. Proof it before you submit it before production.
Upload or otherwise deliver your artwork to the laser etching vendor. It would be a good idea to send your printouts if you are mailing a disc.
Confirm all your order details including quantity, material and price. Be sure to state your expected delivery date and shipping method.
Check your received order carefully for any defects in the material or flaws in the etching.