Recording of low spatial frequency gratings in iron‐doped LiNbO3crystals using a single write beam by both direct contact and optical projection methods is reported. Gratings with periods in the range 50–200 &mgr;m have been produced generating up to 40 visible diffraction orders when probed with a low‐power HeNe laser. Diffraction efficiencies over 20% are achieved for the first diffraction order.