The Nitty-Gritty of Laser Engraving Leather

Laser settings vary widely. Some leather is thick, tough, and difficult to get a good mark – belts may fall into this category. Unless you have experience with that type of leather or the same product, start with a low power setting. Turn the power up if needed for one or more additional passes. If you can get a sample piece of the leather to test, that helps a great deal. Thinner, more supple leather marks easily, and you will be happy you started with a lower power setting or fast speed.

If this sounds like too much work for the money, don’t laser other people’s leather products – it’s a safe policy. Should you want to create your own products from natural leather, find a leather goods store in your area that sells to leather craftsman. Please remember, when you laser real leather, you are burning a material that smells like burnt skin. It is not a pleasant smell.

Learn more about engraving leather and leatherette in Bob’s May 2021 article.