Photo engraving on leather: how it works and which photos to choose

Engraving a photo on leather is not printing it on top. The laser darkens a very thin layer of the leather's surface, so the image becomes part of the leather — it can't rub off or peel.

How does laser engraving work?

The photo is first turned into tones of black and white. The laser works the leather more in dark areas and less in light ones, leaving a warm, vintage-looking image made of the leather's own tones. The live preview on our site is built from the very file we engrave: what you see on screen is what we make.

Which photos engrave best?

• Choose sharp, well-lit photos; blurry or dark shots get even softer once engraved.
• Make sure faces are large in the frame. In wide group shots, faces become tiny.
• If the background is busy, use remove background in the editor so the people stand out.
• An ordinary phone photo is perfectly fine; you don't need a professional shoot.

Handwriting and drawings

A note or drawing in dark pen on white paper engraves almost exactly as written once you photograph and upload it. Keep the paper flat and avoid shadows.

What is Crazy Horse leather?

Crazy Horse is a thick cowhide finished with oils and wax. It lightens where it folds or gets scratched and darkens with use, so each piece develops its own patina. It also takes laser engraving beautifully: engraved areas turn a warm brown.

Choosing a colour

Light brown and tan give dark, crisp engraving. Dark brown and red give a softer, vintage look. On black leather the engraving comes out light, so the editor automatically prepares photos for that.

Caring for engraved leather

The engraving is in the leather, so it won't wear off. Wipe with a dry, soft cloth, avoid long exposure to water and apply a little leather balm once or twice a year.