A method of forming an abrasive article includes directing a beam of electromagnetic radiation at a starting location on an abrasive preform comprising a bonding layer and abrasive grains within the bonding layer, and increasing the power of the beam of electromagnetic radiation to a scanning power while directed at the starting location. The method further includes changing the position of the beam relative to the abrasive preform from the starting location to a second location on the abrasive preform.