Found the following quote on http://instructables.com, helpful for those cutting leather with their laser: @Yuusuf_Sallahuddin_Y @Ariel_Yahni_UniKpty @Alex_Krause
“The laser cutter has a tendency to burn the edges of the leather so immediately after I have finished my cut I submerge all the pieces in warm water and agitate them to remove the soot. This precaution helps reduce the smell of burnt leather and also makes the pieces supple for the hand lasting process. I leave the leather soaking in water for about half an hour. You can also use a brush or cloth along your edges to help reduce the soot.”