The present disclosure relates generally to color laser engraving. One claim recites a method of color laser exposing a document, the document comprising a multi-layer structure including a surface layer and one or more sub-layers, the one or more sub-layers including coloring, said method comprising: receiving the document; and selectively providing openings in the surface layer with a laser to expose one or more of the sub-layers, wherein the coloring is perceptible through the openings, and in which the coloring comprises a plurality of different colors arranged in a grouping, with the one or more sub-layers comprising repeated instances of the grouping. Of course, other claims are provided too.