Is it possible to engrave soapstone?

Space Teams LASERS
1

I’m looking into inlaying a copper leaf (0.02" thick) in a soapstone tile. Joe Ngo suggested using a laser to cut the soapstone to depth. I have NO experience with lasers, so was curious if any one thought it was possible/practical.

Thanks!

2

I’ve never cut soapstone on a laser but I have etched slate. Unlike a CNC, you will not have absolute control over depth so parts may be slightly higher or lower because of differences in the material. Make sure you have spare stone to experiment with to determine the correct power and speed settings. The laser classes will cover all that. I would also suggest you stop by the Laser SIG (special interest group) and the CNC SIG. Both are on the the first Sunday morning of the month. Good chance someone there will have excellent suggestions.

Good Luck

3

soapstone should engrave ok. i can’t say for sure what speed gives what depth. just a wild guess, i think it will engrave pretty deeply even at moderate speeds.

copper leaf flakes could be pressed in manually. we can’t cut a sheet of copper foil to fit into the engraved parts though

1 Like
4

Thanks for the info! I’ll try to be at at least one of the SIG meetings next Sunday

5

Thanks!!