Lithophanes

The Ultimate Personalized Gift! 

Lithophanes are truly great gifts for that person who 'has it all'. Take a meaningful picture and turn that evanescent digital file into a solid, durable memory that no ransomware can corrupt. A lithophane is a type of photograph(typically black and white, although we're attempting techniques for making color lithophanes) that is made by taking the negative(or reverse) of the image and, these days*, 3d printing it with white filament. This makes the front of the lithophane look like a jagged blob of plastic, but when you place a bright light such as an LED tea candle or phone flashlight, it suddenly shows the photo in stunning detail. They make great nightlights too. We have many different styles available, from flat ones for windows to curved ones for tea candles and nightlights, even circular lampshades! If you have an idea, we'll be happy to work with you to make it a reality.

* The original lithophanes(litho-stone and phainein- to cause to appear) were carved from porcelain, but these days automation works just as well or better, with a more sturdy result that can withstand today's demanding environments.