the present invention provides a method for a customer to interact with a computer system over a computer network for specifying custom decoration of a plastic food service article . a computer - assisted decorating machine then processes the customer input and customizes the food service article according to the customer input . thereafter , the customized article is delivered to the customer . creation of customized and / or personalized designs is rendered feasible by providing readymade templates for a variety of events and occasions . in embodiments , the computer - assisted decorating machine is a laser marking system , and the food service articles are made from a plastic material that discolors when irradiated with a laser beam . the markings can emulate silver , gold , or pewter without applying metals , inks , or coatings to the plastic articles , and laser marked plate products can resemble decorated china plates or other permanent ware articles .