Convert images to SVG for laser cutting
Turn artwork into the clean vector paths your laser software actually wants.
Laser software cuts along vector paths and engraves from raster fills. Feed it a PNG and you can only engrave; feed it a clean SVG and you can cut, score, and engrave from the same file. VectorDrop turns your artwork into that SVG in seconds, free and in the browser.
Why VectorDrop for this
- ▸SVG is the native import format for Glowforge, xTool Creative Space, LightBurn, and LaserGRBL
- ▸Vector paths become cut and score lines — raster images can only ever be engraved
- ▸Scale a design from a coaster to a tabletop with no loss of edge quality
- ▸Closed paths let you separate cut, score, and engrave operations cleanly
- ▸Smaller files that import instantly instead of choking on megapixel bitmaps
Tips for best results
- ▸Trace at lower detail — every extra node is another point the laser head has to follow
- ▸Check that outlines are closed paths before cutting, or the laser will leave the piece attached
- ▸Keep cut lines as strokes and engrave areas as fills so your laser software can separate them
- ▸Mind the kerf: the beam removes material, so inset interlocking parts by roughly 0.1–0.2mm
- ▸Test on scrap first — a trace that looks right on screen can still have stray micro-paths
Real examples
- ▸Hand-drawn logos scanned and cut into wooden signage
- ▸Stencil artwork converted for acrylic cutting
- ▸Line-art illustrations engraved onto slate coasters and leather
- ▸Sketched box and joint templates traced into cuttable outlines
Frequently asked questions
Only for engraving. Cutting and scoring require vector paths, which is why laser software asks for SVG, DXF, or PDF. Convert the PNG to SVG first and you unlock all three operations.
VectorDrop exports SVG. Glowforge, xTool Creative Space, and LightBurn all import SVG directly, and LightBurn can save out to DXF if your workflow needs it.
Usually stray micro-paths left by anti-aliasing in the source image. Lower the detail setting, reduce the colour count, and delete any tiny leftover shapes before sending it to the laser.
Most laser software treats hairline or very thin strokes as cut lines. Check your machine's convention — Glowforge and LightBurn both key off stroke versus fill rather than an exact width.
Ready to vectorise your image?
Upload a PNG, JPG, or WebP and get a clean SVG in seconds. Free and browser-based.
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