Wonderful news, everyone. We are excited to announce that our new xTool M1 laser is set up and ready to rock. What does this mean for you? Laser engraved initials, names, verses, quotes, lyrics, logos, or graphic
How does ordering work?
When customizing your bespoke leather goods, We're happy to chat over email or Instagram to make the design perfect. For images such as company logos, SVG, PNG, AI, high quality JPEG, and CAD all work well for engraving. You can email these to info@tchleather.com
Why a laser?
There are two main ways to apply letters and graphics to leather: pressing, or laser. Pressing can be done hot or cold (we love our heated press!!), but the drawback is that, if you'd like a specific alphabet, duplicate letters, or especially logos, you need to have a stamp made from softer, wearable material like acrylic, or in "forever" materials like brass. This process is time consuming (have you tried shipping lately?) and most of all can get expensive.
Again, we love our heat press for its peerless simplicity--flip a switch, and things get hot--but sometimes we need more flexibility. That's where the laser comes in.
Why the xTool M1?
We actually pre-ordered the M1 months ago because it is the world's first 10W diode laser combined with a CNC cutting tool (think Cricut). This makes the M1 extremely functional for us here in the shop. With the blade attachment, we can cut intricate pieces of leather and avoid scorching our beautiful Italian veg tan. Then, with the precise laser, we can customize company mottoes, quotes, birthdays, etc., all in the same machine. Rad.
What are the drawbacks?
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There are a few things that lasers need help with to succeed. For one, the xTool M1 needs a clear, clean design to output the best image. Blurry JPEG images are not best here. Additionally, a diode laser, as opposed to a more powerful CO2 laser, cannot engrave certain materials because of the wavelength of the beam. For our purposes, this includes bright white leather. Another drawback is the cost of laser machines. They can be prohibitively expensive for a small shop, and makers that use laser technology are sometimes forced to charge for the service. But we like you, so it's free. ;-)
So what now?
What now is to hop to our product pages and design your own bespoke Italian leather goods, drop your personalization details, and ENJOY. Please don't hesitate to email or send an Instagram message with any specific requests, questions, or files. (@tc_hall_leather or info@tchleather.com)
Take care, everyone, and we hope to work together soon!!
-Thomas
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