If you're just starting out with laser engraving and want one machine that handles both wood and leather beautifully — along with other common materials like paper, cardstock, and opaque acrylic — you're looking for versatility, ease of use, and reliable results without a steep learning curve.

In early 2026, the standout all-round choice for beginners tackling these organic materials is the xTool S1 (especially the 20W or 40W enclosed diode version). It strikes an excellent balance between power, safety, user-friendliness, and performance on wood and leather, making it ideal for personalized signs, custom wallets, keychains, and more.

Why the xTool S1 Excels as the Best All-Rounder for Beginners

The xTool S1 is a fully enclosed diode laser that offers Class 1 safety (perfect for home use with kids or pets around), quick setup, and strong community support. Here's why it shines for wood-to-leather projects:

• Powerful yet controllable diode laser (10W–40W options) — Delivers crisp, high-contrast engravings on wood and deep, detailed marks on leather without excessive charring.
• Large work area (up to 19.6" x 13") — Gives you room for bigger projects like charcuterie boards or multiple leather items at once.
• Enclosed design with exhaust — Reduces fumes (important for leather) and keeps everything safer and cleaner.
• Intuitive software — xTool Creative Space is beginner-friendly with material presets, plus full LightBurn compatibility for more advanced control.
• Built-in features — Dual cameras for easy alignment, swappable modules (including optional IR for future metal work), and fast speeds.

Priced around $900–$1,800 depending on the wattage, it's more capable than lower-power options like the Glowforge Aura while remaining approachable for newcomers.

Here are some inspiring beginner-friendly examples of what you can create right away on wood:

And stunning results on leather, like personalized wallets:

See the clean, detailed engraving possible on solid hardwood and charcuterie boards with the xTool S1:

Solid Alternatives If the xTool S1 Doesn't Fit

• For ultra-simplicity — Glowforge Aura (around $1,199): Plug-and-play with cloud software, great for thin wood and faux leather, but smaller work area and lower power limit thicker cuts.
• For maximum budget power — Creality Falcon 2 (22W–40W models, often under $800): Fast speeds and excellent wood/leather performance, though open-frame requires good ventilation.

Quick Starter Tips for Wood and Leather Success

• Wood — Use basswood or craft plywood for the cleanest results; start with 80–100% power at moderate speeds for deep engraving.
• Leather — Opt for vegetable-tanned or genuine leather; test settings to avoid burning — lower power and higher speed usually work best.
• Always — Use proper ventilation, wear safety glasses, and run test grids on scrap material first.

The xTool S1 gives beginners the confidence to jump from simple wooden name signs to intricate leather goods without needing multiple machines. Dive into the tutorials, grab some affordable materials, and start creating — your first custom project is just a few settings away!