LaserUser.com Forum (formerly RDWorksLab)

I need everyone's help. What type of wood lasers good but is flexible. I need something flexible enough to fit the contours of the front of a hat. I have tried thin balsa wood, it's OK but I've had a few pieces snap on my. I really don't know what else to try. Please see photo to see what I am talking about.

You could possibly steam the flag and bend it to shape after the engraving. Most wood is not very flexible, you could maybe engrave/cut grooves in the back to get some flex- how bout leather or pleather? It is a nice idea, tho.

Gene Uselman wrote: Wed Mar 06, 2019 You could possibly steam the flag and bend it to shape after the engraving. Most wood is not very flexible, you could maybe engrave/cut grooves in the back to get some flex- how bout leather or pleather? It is a nice idea, tho.

I've done hundreds of the leatherette patches, just trying to find something new to use. Got to keep the market fresh. I am trying to find some veneer at a reasonable price to practice on.

Gotcha- I like the idea of steaming more and more as I think of it. Does not take much for a .125 wood to bend it, and I think it would be unique.

bamboo is very flexible, at least along the direction of the fibers.
I'm not sure if you'd get the contrast you want, the the widths are very limited without getting into laminated materials, but it's a thought...