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Denim has always been a versatile and beloved fabric, but have you ever considered giving your denim a fresh new look with laser engraving? Today, we’re experimenting with just that—breathing new life into our denim clothing with the help of a CO2 laser machine.

Why laser engraving works best on denim
Denim is a cotton-based fabric with a distinctive weave pattern that gives it its durability and texture. However, this very structure can make it challenging to cut or engrave, especially when high precision is required. For such tasks, a CO2 laser machine is the perfect tool. It offers unparalleled accuracy, enabling clean cuts and intricate engravings that other methods simply can’t achieve.
Meet the Wattsan 6090 LT: a reliable workhorse
Our machine of choice for the experiment is the Wattsan 6090 LT CO2 laser engraver. This model is extremely popular, with hundreds sold in 2023 alone. Its popularity stems from its ability to handle a wide variety of non-metallic materials. The medium-sized working area makes it ideal for both small workshops and larger production facilities.
One of the key features of Wattsan machines is their robust construction. With a reinforced portal and a frame design, the machine stays stable during operation, eliminating vibrations that could compromise engraving quality. The 2.7 mm thick metal body further ensures durability and precision, even during high-speed operations. These features make the Wattsan 6090 LT a go-to choice for industries like light manufacturing and advertising.
Moreover, the machine is equipped with honeycomb and passthrough tables, allowing users to process materials of various lengths and sizes. For businesses focused on fabric processing, clients often choose between two Wattsan 6090 machines, a dual-head 1610 DUOS, or the Cam Conveyor model for continuous workflows.

Experimenting with laser engraving on denim
To achieve the perfect laser engraving on denim, the goal is to remove only the top layer of the fabric without compromising its integrity. Ideally, we aim for ablation—a process that vaporizes the uppermost layer. For our initial test, we set the speed to 500 mm/s and the power to 20%. However, before engraving on actual denim clothing, we tested the settings on scrap pieces to avoid ruining the final product.

- Initial test: At 20% power, the laser burned through the denim, leaving undesirable results. Clearly, the power was too high.
- Adjustments: We reduced the power to 10% while keeping the same speed. Additionally, we used the potentiometer—a feature included in all Wattsan CO2 laser machines starting from the 0503 model—to fine-tune the laser power. This manual adjustment allows for precise control, which is essential for working with delicate materials like denim.
After experimenting with the potentiometer, we found the optimal settings. The engraving was durable, and the design didn’t tear under stress. The key was reducing the power to the minimum ignition threshold of the laser tube—a value that varies for each machine and must be determined individually.
Key takeaways for laser engraving on denim
Our experiment highlights a few essential tips for laser engraving on fabrics like denim:
- Precise power control: Use the potentiometer to fine-tune the laser power for delicate materials. This ensures you don’t burn or damage the fabric while achieving the desired results.

- Laser tube power: Opt for a medium- or low-power laser tube for working with thin and delicate materials. Higher-power tubes may be excessive and could damage the fabric.

- Testing is essential: Always perform test engravings on scrap material before working on final pieces to avoid costly mistakes.
Conclusion
Laser engraving on denim is a creative way to personalize clothing and add intricate designs. The Wattsan 6090 LT CO2 laser machine proves to be an excellent choice for such tasks, offering precision, reliability, and versatility.
By mastering the use of the potentiometer and carefully adjusting the settings, you can achieve stunning and durable engravings on delicate fabrics. Whether for personal projects or business, laser engraving opens up endless possibilities for innovation.