We have realized novel electrode configurations for efficient periodic poling of ferroelectric crystals by applying a simple patterning method based on laser-induced material ablation. The new geometries were theoretically investigated and compared with conventional configurations. A systematic optimization of the patterning according to the ablated profile led to high-quality quasi-phase-matched structures in lithium niobate with a grating period of 20 mum . The periodically poled samples were characterized by use of third-order second-harmonic generation of a Nd:YAG laser.