How to engrave on denim?
Posted by Joey Weng on
Background
Hey there! If you've ever stared at a pair of old jeans or a denim scrap and thought, "What if I could personalize this with a laser-etched design?"—you're in the right place. Today, we're exploring whether the NEJE MAX 4 & E80 20W diode laser engraver can tackle denim, and spoiler: it absolutely can. This compact powerhouse is perfect for DIY crafters looking to add custom flair to fabric projects like tote bags, patches, or even jacket backs. We'll walk through the basics, from setup to settings.
Why Engrave Denim with a Diode Laser?
Denim's tough, dyed canvas makes it a fun challenge for lasers—it etches by vaporizing the top indigo layer, revealing the white fibers underneath for crisp, faded designs without burning through. The NEJE MAX 4 & E80 20W shines here with its 20W power, delivering precise control on irregular surfaces like fabric folds.
Pro tip: Start with scrap denim to avoid regrets on your favorite Levi's.
What You'll Need
- NEJE MAX 4 & E80 20W Diode Laser Engraver: The star of the show—ensure it's assembled and connected via USB.
- Denim Material: A 7x7-inch scrap (old jeans work great; cut to size for easy handling).
- NEJE/Lightburn Software: Imports, edits, and machine control.
- Design File: Grab a free SVG (like a simple logo or quote) from sites like Creative Fabrica or design your own in Inkscape.
- Extras: Safety glasses (always!), painter's tape for securing fabric, and a soft brush for cleanup.
Step-by-Step Guide to Engraving Denim
1.Prep Your Design in Software:
- Open Lightburn Software and import your SVG (File > Import).
- Resize to fit your denim—try 5x4 inches for starters (use the width/height tools).
- Switch the layer mode from "Line" to "Fill" in the properties panel for solid engraving.
2.Set Up the Laser and Material
- Secure your denim scrap to the workbed with tape—flat is best to avoid shadows.
- Adjust focus: Adjust the focus length between the laser head and the denim to be around 23mm.
3.Dial in Your Settings(E80 20w)
- Start conservative: Speed at 20000mm/min, Power at 25% (20W gives plenty of headroom).
- Passes: You can test on a corner first to check contrast.
| Material Type | Power (%) | Speed (mm/min) | Passes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raw Denim (Dark) | 25-30 | 20000-22000 | 1 | Subtle fade; test for thread pop. |
| Washed Denim (Medium) | 30 | 20000-22000 | 1-2 | Balanced contrast; great for logos. |
| Stretch Denim |
20-25 |
18000-20000 | 2 | Lower power prevents melting elastane. |
Let it cool, then brush off any lint. The result? A vintage-washed design that looks professionally distressed. If it's too faint, bump power to 30% next time; too dark? Slow it to 15 mm/min.
Quick Tips for Success
- Test First: Always engrave a 1-inch square sample—denim thickness varies.
- Safety Note: Work in a ventilated space—diode lasers are low-odor, but fans help.