Preparing SVG and DXF Files for Laser Cutting and Engraving
Laser cutters and CNC machines are only as good as the file you feed them. Here is how to go from a picture to a clean, machine-friendly vector.
What makes a good laser file
- Closed paths: every shape should be a closed loop, so the software knows what is inside and outside.
- No overlaps: overlapping shapes make the laser cut the same line twice and burn the material.
- Few nodes: smooth curves with few points give smooth motion and faster jobs.
- Separate layers: one color per operation, for example red = cut, black = engrave.
From image to laser file with Vexorio
- Upload your image and choose Black & white (single operation) or Logo (several colors).
- Switch off “Seal gaps between colors”. That avoids overlapping outlines.
- Raise Remove specks to drop tiny islands.
- Raise Smoothness until the curves look clean in the Outlines view.
- Download, then import the SVG into LightBurn or the DXF into RDWorks, Fusion 360 or your CAM tool.
SVG or DXF?
LightBurn, Glowforge and xTool handle SVG very well and keep the colors. DXF is the universal format for CAD/CAM and older laser software. Vexorio's DXF uses millimeters and one layer per color. You get both in every download.
Always run a test on scrap material first and check the scale. 96 px in the image equals 25.4 mm in the DXF.