Transform photos into CNC-ready 3D models with AI depth estimation
Privacy: All processing happens locally. Uploaded images and generated files are automatically deleted 1 hour after upload. No data is sent to external services.
Configure material settings and carving depth - required before proceeding to subsequent steps.
Specify the physical dimensions of your wood piece for optimal carving layout.
photo2form will generate G-code files directly. Select tools from your library, or add/edit bits. Settings pre-loaded with proven values.
_ROUGH.tap
_FINISH.tap
Upload your image to begin carving preparation. Image will be analyzed for optimal depth mapping.
Select the type of image you're uploading
Choose which depth estimation model to use
V3: DA3MONO-LARGE monocular specialist. V2: DA2-Large via HuggingFace. Both Apache 2.0 (commercially safe).
Depth Map Colors: Red (shallow/raised) → Blue (deep carving)
Analyzing image and generating preview...
Control how depth is calculated
Adjust depth, detail, and background
Higher = more sculptural
Lower = smoother, higher = intricate
Smooths small bumps (stars, dots, patterns)
Raise to flatten background
Your Image
Auto-resize to match carving dimensions
Cropped areas shown in gray
Carving Depth Map
Double-click image to open editor
Relief Preview
How deep the carving cuts. Higher = more sculptural.
Fine detail level. Lower = smoother, higher = more intricate.
Smooths bumps and noise. Good for cleaning up artifacts.
Raise to flatten the background away from the subject.
Live preview of carving relief
Draw areas to adjust height (use slider to raise or lower)
Left = lower, Right = raise. Uses max height if set.
Smooth edge transition
How deep features are carved into the dome
Convert regions to greyscale before AI depth. Improves eye detail and reduces color artifacts.
Optional: also raise/lower the greyscale region. Click % to type exact value.
Smooth transition between greyscale and color
Scroll to zoom, drag to pan
Press ESC to close
Generate laser G-code to char edges on your carved relief. G-code goes to your CNC controller (not separate laser software).
Creates .nc file for your CNC controller. Laser follows 3D surface to maintain focus.
Higher = darker char
Slower = darker burn
Higher = more edges
When unchecked, flat surface areas (uncarved background) won't be lasered
Type text, choose font/style, then click Add. Click a placed text below to edit it. Drag on canvas to move.
Downloads .nc file for your CNC controller
⚠️ SAFETY: Laser glasses required. Proper ventilation. Fire extinguisher nearby.
Preview (Poplar)
Draw rectangles to add detail regions with custom edge sensitivity
⏳ Preview will generate automatically
Shows carved wood with charred edges
Flat laser G-code for the back of a carving or standalone engraving. Text, handwriting images, maker's marks, dedications.
Higher = darker burn
Text adds on top of any image source.
Upload a scan of handwriting, signature, logo, etc. Dark areas will be burned.
Lower = faster. 150 is fine for text.
Maker's mark, project info, dedications, poems. Drag to position, resize handles to wrap. Use Add Text for each separate text block.
Output: Flat G-code (.nc) added to your ZIP. Flip stock, zero, and run.
Back Engraving Preview
Drag text to position. Drag blue handle to resize. Orange handle to rotate.
Laser burn intensity
Laser movement speed
Edge detail threshold
Scroll to zoom, Shift+drag to pan
Fine-tune wood dimensions, borders, and other advanced options. Most users can skip this step.
Only change if needed (batch carving, specific lumber size, etc.)
Select width or enter custom dimensions:
Wood dimensions: 10.0" x 15.0" (" x ") [ x mm]
Carved area: 9.6" x 14.6" (" x ") [ x mm] (with 0.2" border on all sides)
Estimated carving time: --
Important: Wood dimensions you enter = what you enter into your CAM software. The carving area on the wood will be smaller to allow for the border (if enabled).
Sets where (0,0) is located on the STL model. Must match your CAM software's XY datum setting.
Override the backing depth selection in Step 1 with your own value. YOU are responsible for safety calculations!
Not needed for CNC-mounted lasers (NextWave attachment uses same XY zero). Only enable if using a standalone laser engraver that requires manual alignment.
Enter Wood Size in your CAM software's Job Setup. The STL file accounts for the border.
CNC Risks: Equipment damage, material waste, injury, fire. You are responsible for: Testing with scrap first, verifying settings, using safety gear, safe practices. Disclaimer: Files may contain errors—always review and adjust for your setup. Recommendations, not guarantees.
By checking this box, you accept full responsibility for safe CNC operation and confirm you will test all toolpaths on scrap material before final runs.