Uploaded June 2024 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago

---

In this video we are going in depth with depth maps and the embossing feature of the xTool F1 ULTRA. The xTool F1 ULTRA can create beautiful embossings with the 20W fiber laser but this requires an image known as a depth map. You can download these images - but if you want to create or edit them, you'll need to know a little more about them.

You can start with AI generated images and I'll show you how I've converted them to depth maps. These depth maps are different than vectors, or the regular raster images you would use for laser engraving on the xTool F1 ULTRA.

If you haven't purchased the xTool F1 ULTRA, use the link below to support my channel and get the best discount direct from xTool:

xtool.com/products/xtool-f1-ultra-20w-fiber-diode-dual-laser-engraver?ref=D5HpJRsyqyUUnt&utm_medium=5306&utm_source=influencer

Depth maps are greyscale images that contain shades of grey from values 0 - 255 that represent the relative distances of objects / surfaces. The white values would be closer to the view point, and the black values farther away. I will show you how I generate these depth maps from 3D STL files, as well as starting with 2D images. I will also show you how I edit them in graphics editing software, such as Photoshop, and how to save them without losing or adding information. These tools and techniques can also be used for other fiber lasers - this is not only applicable to the xTool F1 ULTRA.

I am not an expert in this field but these are the techniques that have worked well for me, as you can see from the examples. However, I am always open to hearing about better solutions - please put your suggestions in the comment section!

If you are looking for some of the depth map files I created, you can find those here:

► embracemaking.com/collections/depth-maps

If you are looking for the depth map material test graphic, you can find that here:

► embracemaking.com/blogs/resources/emboss-with-depth-maps

3D STL to Depth Map:

► fenrus75.github.io/FenrusCNCtools/javascript/stl2png.html

2D Image to Depth Map:

► github.com/BillFSmith/TilingZoeDepth

► colab.research.google.com/drive/1LzWMQ8FU_CBbhNfLBeOWtL39B5oHwgqC?usp=sharing

► depth-r.com

► boundingboxsoftware.com/materialize/getkey.php

► vistasculpt.com

If you've already purchased the F1 ULTRA, you can find the controller holder and mount at the link below:

► embracemaking.com/products/xtool-f1-ultra-controller-stand-and-mount

Here, you can find the F1 to F1 ULTRA fixture adapter:

► embracemaking.com/products/xtool-f1-to-f1-ultra-fixture-adapter

and here you can find the 3" to 4" Hose Adapter:

► embracemaking.com/products/3-inch-76mm-to-4-inch-101mm-hose-adapter

the xTool hose to xTool Smoke and Purifier Adapter:

► embracemaking.com/products/xtool-s1-3-hose-to-xtool-smoke-purifier

If you're looking for some of the other xTool products I've shown in this video, you can find them here:

Smoke and Fume Filtration System:
► xtool.com/products/pre-order-xtool-smoke-purifier?_pos=1&_sid=fa1fce9eb&_ss=r&ref=D5HpJRsyqyUUnt&utm_medium=5306&utm_source=influencer

6" Inline Duct Fan:
► xtool.com/products/xtool-inline-duct-fan?ref=D5HpJRsyqyUUnt&utm_medium=5306&utm_source=influencer

If you're looking for the original F1 Fixtures to handle a huge variety of popular items:

F1 V-Block, Pencil, Bottle Opener Jig
► embracemaking.com/products/xtool-f1-v-block-pencil-bottle-opener-jig

F1 Multi-Fixture Kit:
► embracemaking.com/products/xtool-f1-multi-jig-and-circular-fixture-kit

If you are looking for products or items I've used with in this video, see below. As an Amazon Associate may I earn from qualifying purchases (at no extra cost to you):

REAL Brass Challenge Coins:
► amzn.to/3Xd5BY0

LARGE Tent Enclosure:
► amzn.to/4bRlA2y

Electric Screwdriver:
► amzn.to/3P43fpz

Digital Calipers:
► amzn.to/48IQh7w

4" Inline Duct Fan with Controller:
► amzn.to/4a91Nd4

Electric Air Duster
► amzn.to/3UHdyDe

Air Quality Monitor
► amzn.to/3xgoaA2

0:00 Intro
1:34 Calibration
4:19 Embossing
8:13 Ventilation
10:28 3D to Depth Map
15:28 2D to Depth Map
33:36 Saving Depth Maps
34:38 Embossing Examples
37:56 Engrave Over Embossing
42:27 Depth Map Test Card
43:29 Outro

#xTool #xToollasermachine #fiberlaser #laserbusiness #metallasercuttingmachine

Thank you to @xToollaser for supplying me with the xTool F1 ULTRA

*******************************************************

If you have benefited from my content and are feeling generous I would love your support! You can "buy me a coffee" here:

► paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=V2T6MEFUGP73Y

Follow me on Instagram!

► instagram.com/embracemaking