Question 1

What is EngravReady?

Accepted Answer

EngravReady is a free, browser-based image preparation tool for laser engraving. It converts your photos into optimized greyscale or pure black-and-white images ready for laser engravers and cutters — all processing happens in your browser with no uploads.

Question 2

Do I need to install anything to use this laser engraving tool?

Accepted Answer

No. EngravReady runs entirely in your web browser. There is nothing to download or install. Just open the page, upload your image, and start adjusting. It works on any modern browser on desktop or mobile.

Question 3

Is my image uploaded to a server?

Accepted Answer

No. All image processing happens locally on your device using the HTML5 Canvas API. Your photos never leave your browser, are never transmitted over the internet, and are discarded from memory when you close the page.

Question 4

What is the difference between Greyscale and Pure B&W mode for laser engraving?

Accepted Answer

Greyscale mode produces images with a full range of tones (0–255), suitable for laser engravers that support variable power output. Pure B&W mode converts the image to only black and white pixels, which is required by diode lasers and engravers that only support on/off pulsing.

Question 5

What is Floyd-Steinberg dithering and when should I use it?

Accepted Answer

Floyd-Steinberg dithering is an error-diffusion algorithm that converts a greyscale image into a pattern of black and white dots that simulate shades of grey. Use it in B&W mode when your laser engraver only supports on/off power but you want the appearance of tonal detail in the engraving.

Question 6

What DPI should I export my laser engraving image at?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your laser engraver. 300 DPI is a good default for most hobby diode lasers. 600 DPI provides finer detail for higher-end machines. 1000 DPI is suitable for professional CO2 lasers or when maximum resolution is needed. Match the DPI to your engraver's supported resolution for best results.

Question 7

What wood types can I preview my laser engraving on?

Accepted Answer

EngravReady includes simulated wood grain previews for five popular materials: Pine, Walnut, Cherry, Maple, and Bamboo. The preview uses a multiply blend mode to show how your engraved image will look on each wood type before you commit to the actual burn.

Question 8

Can I use EngravReady with LightBurn, LaserGRBL, or xTool Creative Space?

Accepted Answer

Yes. EngravReady exports standard PNG and JPG files that are compatible with all major laser engraving software including LightBurn, LaserGRBL, xTool Creative Space, Luban, and others. Simply download the processed image and import it into your preferred software.

Free Laser Engraving Image Prep Tool

Original

Processed

Processing Controls

Wood Preview

Export