Bitmap for Laser Engraving

Laser engravers turn a photo into dots of burnt and unburnt material — which is exactly what dithering does. Here is how to prepare a clean bitmap for laser engraving and pick the best mode.

Why dithering is the best bitmap mode for engraving

A laser fires or it doesn't, so it needs a 1-bit image. Dithering fakes grey with patterns of dots, giving smooth-looking photo engraves. Among methods, error-diffusion styles like Jarvis, Stucki and Atkinson are popular bitmap modes for laser engraving because they spread detail evenly.

How to convert a photo for the laser

1. Load your photo in the converter.
2. Choose Jarvis, Stucki or Atkinson; raise contrast a little for materials like wood.
3. Set the pixel size to match your laser's dot spacing / DPI.
4. Export a .bmp or PNG and import it into LightBurn, xTool or your engraver's software.

LightBurn and xTool notes

If you normally rely on LightBurn convert to bitmap or bitmap mode on xTool, doing the dithering here first gives you more control and a live preview, then you import an already-dithered file and engrave it directly.

Related converters & guides

• JPG to bitmap
• Dither methods
• Image to bitmap
• Bitmap effect

Frequently asked questions

What is the best bitmap mode for laser engraving?

Error-diffusion dithering such as Jarvis, Stucki or Atkinson usually gives the smoothest photo engraves.

How do I convert a photo to a bitmap for engraving?

Load it in the converter, pick a diffusion dither method, set the pixel size to your DPI, and export a .bmp or PNG.

Can I use this with LightBurn or xTool?

Yes. Export the dithered image, then import it into LightBurn or xTool and engrave.

Which dither is best for wood vs metal?

Higher contrast and Atkinson suit wood; finer Jarvis/Stucki can suit coated metals. Test on scrap first.

What resolution should I use?

Match the pixel size to your laser's dot spacing so dots don't overlap or leave gaps.