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HomeCreative ToolsDepth Map & Relief Generator
Color relief design preview in the Emboss Generator

AI Depth Map & Relief Generator

Turn an image into a depth map for relief engraving or a textured color design for xTool O1. Adjust the depth, inspect the 3D preview, and choose your output. Also known as Emboss Generator.

See a Real Depth Map Example

A depth map uses pixel values to describe relative shape or height. Simply removing color from a photo keeps lighting and shadows; it does not recover the subject’s shape. This koi image is a PNG downloaded from a built-in Atomm sample. Open it to inspect the file, then try your own image in the generator.

View the Sample PNG
Grayscale koi and floral depth map downloaded from an Atomm built-in sample

How to Generate a Depth Map

Start with your image, then prepare the relief for your next step.

01

Add an Image

Open the generator and upload a reference image, describe an idea, or choose a built-in template. Use a clear subject with readable edges.

02

Generate and Adjust

Choose Depth Map, generate the relief, then inspect it in 2D and 3D. Adjust the depth and switch between raised and recessed relief as needed.

03

Download or Continue in Studio

Use Export to download a depth-map PNG. For textured color printing, choose Color Relief (O1) and continue in xTool Studio.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Relief Projects

More

Choose the Output for Your Project

A depth-map image, a color relief design, and a 3D model serve different workflows.

PNG Depth Map

Use the grayscale depth image to prepare relief engraving. Check height direction and test settings for your device and material.

Color Relief / Studio

Continue with color artwork and depth information for xTool O1. A grayscale PNG alone does not contain the original colors.

STL Relief Model

Choose a 3D model when your next step is slicing and 3D printing a relief or mold master.

Relief Project Ideas

Browse community relief projects for inspiration. Check each project’s attachments; not every project includes a separate depth-map file.

Check the Shape Before You Export

Inspect faces, outlines, background separation, and smooth transitions in the 3D preview. Adjust relief depth and Emboss or Engrave mode. When preparing a model, review the shape and backplate too. The preview helps you inspect the design; your machine, material, and processing settings determine the physical result.

Generate Depth Map
Relief preview and depth controls in the Emboss Generator

Create Color Relief for xTool O1

Color and surface texture work together in a color relief. Choose Color Relief (O1) in the editor and continue with the design in xTool Studio. Check the color artwork, depth preview, material, and print settings before printing. Explore xTool O1 projects and workflows.

Create a Color Relief
Illustration of a full-color textured relief for xTool O1

Need a Relief Model for a Mold?

Use the STL workflow when you need a 3D-printable relief model rather than a depth-map image. Review the backplate, model shape, and relief height before printing a master for your thermoforming process. Explore WonderPress mold-making ideas.

Create a Relief Model
Relief master and thermoforming mold workflow

Relief Engraving Guides

Learn the workflow, then explore ideas for your next relief.

What Is a Depth Map? From Images to Relief

Learn how depth maps differ from grayscale photos, choose PNG or STL for your relief workflow, and turn an image into a depth map with Atomm.

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3D laser engraving start to finish: turn a photo into a 3D model with AI, then carve relief across 256 gray levels or engrave inside crystal. 2026 guide.

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3D Laser Engraving Inspiration: From Wooden Reliefs to Coin Emboss Projects

Explore 3D laser engraving ideas from wooden reliefs to coin emboss projects. Learn how to create dimensional, tactile designs for gifts, décor, and branding.

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Turn Your Image into a Depth Map

Open the generator to create and preview your relief. Check the displayed credit cost before generating.

Generate Depth Map

Depth Map Generator FAQs

What is a depth map?

A depth map is an image whose pixel values represent depth or relative height. In relief work, those values describe the shape to be raised, recessed, or processed. It is not a measurement of real-world millimeter distances from a single photograph.

Is a depth map the same as a grayscale photo?

How do I turn an image into a depth map?

Can I use the depth map for laser engraving?

What is the difference between Depth Map and Color Relief?

Can I download an STL instead of a PNG?

Is the depth map generator free?

Does white always mean deeper engraving?

Can I start with a prompt or a template?

Is a relief depth map the same as a complete 3D model?

Invite friends to register and both of you get credits.