This page describes a laser engraving setting published for Cuir synthétique (PU) at 1 mm, tested on a Sculpfun S9 fitted with a Diode 5W source (445 nm blue diode, 5 W). It states the exact machine, source, material, thickness and operation of the test; power, speed and number of passes are shown with a Premium pass.
Why those four facts matter: a engraving setting that works on Cuir synthétique (PU) at 1 mm does not transfer to another thickness, nor to another source. A 445 nm blue diode rated 5 W does not deposit the same energy as a stronger module, and the speed has to be adjusted accordingly. Copying a number without checking those four points is the first cause of a ruined part.
Published by LaserSettings (estimation). No other workshop has confirmed it yet: treat it as a starting point, and confirm it from your account if you reproduce it.
No photo comes with this setting yet. If you reproduce it, publish yours from your account: a picture of the result is worth more than a line of numbers.
Recommended routine before running the part: clean the lens, redo the focus, engrave a small test grid on an offcut of the same Cuir synthétique (PU), then adjust the speed rather than the power. Work with fume extraction and air assist, wear glasses rated for 445 nm blue diode, and never leave the machine unattended.
Sculpfun offers diode engravers with a good power-to-price ratio, extension kits and effective air assist. Their hallmark is the very fine focal spot on some modules, excellent for detail engraving but making focus critical when cutting.
Synthetic leather cuts with a laser provided it is polyurethane (PU). If it is PVC — which is very common — it must never be lasered. That is the thing to check before any setting.
Names like "faux leather", "leatherette" or "vegan leather" say nothing about the actual material. Only the supplier's data sheet settles it: look for "PU", "polyurethane" or "PVC-free".
When in doubt, a density test on an offcut (PVC sinks, many PUs float) gives a hint, but the maker's statement is the only proof. Without it, abstain: a single PVC cut is enough to corrode a machine.
PU cuts at low power and high speed, with a slightly heat-sealed edge that does not fray — its great advantage over real leather.
When engraving, PU melts rather than darkens: the result is a discreet satin pattern. At very low power you can get a nice matt effect without piercing the surface layer.
The smoke is that of molten plastic, dense and smelly: keep extraction on. The textile backing can ignite faster than the PU layer itself.
Air the pieces before sewing: the smell soaks in. A dry cloth is enough to clean; alcohol dulls the surface.