Lithophane & 3D-Printed Photo Light FAQ

What is a lithophane?

A lithophane is a 3D-printed panel that looks like a faint relief in normal light but springs to life when backlit. Thicker areas block more light; thinner areas let more light through, creating a detailed black-and-white image with depth.

What kind of photo works best?

• Original, high-resolution image (ideally 2000 px+ on the long edge).
• Well-lit faces with good contrast. Avoid heavy filters, screenshots, or very dark images.
• We’ll handle black-and-white conversion and fine tuning.

Do I get a proof before you print?

Yes. We send a mono (black-and-white) proof for approval. We start production once you approve. Small brightness/contrast tweaks are included.

Why do you use black & white instead of colour?

Monochrome lithophanes deliver the strongest contrast and finest detail when illuminated. For this product we use mono for best results.

What size is the lithophane?

The panel is 152 × 203 mm (15.2 × 20.3 cm). See the product page for any additional sizes or formats.

How is it powered and lit?

Each piece includes an integrated LED backlight for an even glow. Power is USB-C 5 V. (Cable/plug inclusion is shown on the product page.)

Is the light dimmable?

Yes—long-press to adjust brightness.

How long will it take?

• Production: up to 4 working days after you approve the proof.
• Shipping (UK): typically 48 hours (2 working days) after dispatch.

Total typical timeline: ~6 working days from approval.

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Can I return my order?

Personalised items (lithophanes): No change-of-mind returns as standard because each piece is made to your photo and approved at proof stage.

Goodwill option (if shown on the product page): We may accept a personalised return with a reuse surcharge (£10–£13) to cover the non-reusable printed panel and handling, since we can often reuse the frame and LED. See Goodwill Returns (Personalised) below.

International change-of-mind returns: Not accepted.

Full policy: Returns & Refunds Policy.

Goodwill Returns (Personalised)

If explicitly offered on the product page, you may return a personalised item for a refund minus a reuse surcharge (£10–£13) under these conditions:

• Tell us within 14 days of delivery and return within another 14 days.
• Item is clean, complete and resellable with all parts/packaging.
• Customer pays return postage (tracked recommended). Original shipping is non-refundable.

What if my order arrives damaged?

Email info@lithoglow.co.uk within 7 days of delivery with your order number and photos of the outer packaging, inner packaging, and the item. We’ll repair, replace, or refund promptly. We cover return/replacement shipping for damaged items.

Do you offer a warranty?

Yes—1 year for manufacturing defects and electronics faults under normal indoor use. We’ll repair or replace any confirmed issue. Exclusions: accidental damage, misuse, liquid damage, or heat exposure (PLA can soften if placed on radiators or in direct sun behind glass), and power issues from non-standard chargers.

Can I cancel my order?

• Before proof is sent: Full refund.
• After proof is sent & before production starts: You may cancel; a reasonable artwork/handling deduction may apply if significant work is completed.
• In production (after proof approval): Order is locked. If cancelled at this stage, we refund 50% to cover materials, print time and setup.

Who pays return postage?

• Damaged/faulty/our mistake: LithoGlow covers return or replacement shipping.
• Change-of-mind (where applicable): Customer pays return postage and is responsible until received.

How long do refunds take?

Once a return is received/approved, refunds are processed to the original payment method within 2–5 working days (your bank/card may take longer to show the funds).

What material do you use?

We print in PLA (polylactic acid), which gives crisp lithophane detail. Keep away from heat sources and strong direct sun behind glass.

How do I care for it?

• Indoor use only; keep away from heat and moisture.
• Dust with a soft, dry cloth—no solvents or abrasives.

What happens to my photos?

Your photo is used only to make your order. We store files securely and purge working files after completion.

How do I contact you?

Email: info@lithoglow.co.uk
Returns address: 108 Marmion Drive, Glenrothes, KY6 2PQ, United Kingdom