How to Engrave a Depth Map in LightBurn (Step-by-Step)

LightBurn is the most popular software for engraving depth maps, and getting a great result comes down to a handful of settings. This guide walks through the whole process, from import to a finished 3D relief.

1. Import the depth map

Drag your 16-bit grayscale PNG into LightBurn. Place and size it on your workspace exactly as you want it engraved. Don't crop or recolor the file — depth maps are pre-balanced, and editing the grayscale changes how deep each area cuts.

2. Switch to grayscale / 3D mode

Double-click the image layer to open Cut Settings, then set the image mode to Grayscale (sometimes labeled 3D). This is the key step: it tells LightBurn to vary laser power by pixel brightness instead of just turning the beam on and off.

3. Set max and min power

In grayscale mode, Max Power is applied to the darkest (deepest) pixels and Min Power to the lightest. A common starting point on wood is roughly 20% min power and 80–90% max power, but this depends heavily on your machine and material.

4. Dial in speed and line interval

• Use a fine line interval (high DPI / lines per inch) for smooth relief — coarse intervals leave visible ridges.
• Slower speeds cut deeper and smoother but take longer; balance against your material's tolerance for heat.
• Multiple passes can deepen the relief without scorching, especially on diode lasers.

5. Always run a test grid

Before committing to your final piece, run a small power/speed test on the same material. Depth maps are sensitive to settings, and ten minutes of testing saves a ruined workpiece.

Quick troubleshooting

• Relief looks flat? Increase the spread between min and max power, or add a pass.
• Visible banding? Lower your line interval and confirm dithering is off.
• Scorched edges? Reduce max power or increase speed, and consider air assist.