Abstract: Qiang cross stitch embroidery is the most representative embroidery stitch of the Qiang culture, whose patterns are diverse and rich, and reflect the rich life and cultural connotation of the Qiang people. Herein, the Qiang embroidery patterns were extracted by digital software, and the Shape Grammar Theory was used to optimize the design process to realize the sustainable protection and innovation of the Qiang embroidery patterns. The laser engraving technology was then applied to investigate the suitable parameters and the best presentation effect of the Qiang embroidery patterns when used on different leather materials. The best laser engraving conditions on two types of leather were obtained with the following process parameters: number of markings of 2, engraving line speed of 800 mm/s, Q-frequency of 5 kHz, and laser power of 5 W. The results obtained on vegetable tanned cowhide were more favorable than those on sheepskin. In short, this work realizes the creative transformation and innovative development of leather Garments with cultural characteristics of Qiang cross stitch embroidery pattern from the aspects of material, technique, and fabrication.

Key words: leather product design, Qiang embroidery, cross stitch embroidery, laser carving technology