Vector vs. image engraving: why the SVG matters
Laser software handles two kinds of input very differently:
- Bitmap images (PNG, JPG) are engraved line by line, dot by dot. Good for photos, but edges are only as sharp as the pixels, and you cannot cut along them.
- Vectors (SVG, DXF, AI) can be cut or scored by following the path, or filled with a crisp raster engraving whose edges come from the curve, not from pixels.
For logos, lettering, signs, coasters, keychains and acrylic cutouts, vectors give sharper results and shorter jobs. Read more about the difference in raster vs vector graphics.
What a good SVG for laser engraving needs
- Closed paths, so the software knows what to fill and where to cut.
- No overlapping duplicates, which cause double cuts and burnt edges.
- Low node count, so the head moves smoothly instead of stuttering.
- Solid shapes, no gradients, because a laser either fires or it does not (grayscale power maps are a different workflow).
- No embedded bitmaps hiding inside the SVG.
Vecfy outputs exactly this kind of file: filled paths, one group per color, no strokes or effects. Turn on Solid vector for logos with shading or metallic effects, so every area becomes a clean solid shape.
Using the SVG in LightBurn
- In LightBurn, use File → Import and select the SVG. Each color in the file becomes a separate layer in the Cuts/Layers panel.
- For engraving, set the layer mode to Fill. For cutting the outline, set it to Line and adjust speed and power for your material.
- Need an outer cut around the design? Select it and use Tools → Offset Shapes to create a cut line a few millimeters outside.
- Resize to the final dimensions. Vector paths scale with no quality loss.
- Run a frame, then the job.
LightBurn's documentation covers layer modes in depth at docs.lightburnsoftware.com.
xTool Creative Space, Glowforge and others
- xTool Creative Space: drag the SVG onto the canvas. Set each element to Engrave, Score or Cut in the right panel.
- Glowforge: upload the SVG. The app separates operations by color, so each color in the Vecfy file can be assigned Engrave, Score or Cut.
- RDWorks, LaserGRBL and Inkscape plugins: import SVG directly, or export DXF from Inkscape if your software prefers it.
Tips for clean laser results
- Start from the largest image you have. Fine details survive better and curves are smoother.
- Avoid very thin lines; anything thinner than the kerf of your laser will burn away.
- For cutouts with letters, check that the inner parts of letters (counters) are attached or intentionally removed.
- Photos work better with dedicated image engraving. Vectorizing a photo produces a stylized, poster-like result.
- Also cutting vinyl? The same SVG works on cutting plotters, see SVG for Cricut.
SVG for laser engraving on different materials
The same vector file can be engraved or cut on many materials. What changes is how you set up each layer:
| Material | Typical use | Layer setup idea |
|---|---|---|
| Plywood, MDF, hardwood | Signs, coasters, ornaments | Fill engraving for the logo, Line for the outer cut |
| Cast acrylic | Keychains, display stands, cake toppers | Line cut for shapes; engrave on the back for a frosted look |
| Leather | Patches, wallets, tags | Low-power Fill for the design, Line cut for the outline |
| Anodized aluminum, coated tumblers | Branded drinkware, business cards | Fill only; vectors give crisp edges on small logos |
| Slate, glass, stone | Gifts, memorials | Fill engraving; test power on a scrap first |
Power and speed depend entirely on your machine (diode, CO2 or fiber) and material, so always run a material test grid before the final job. The SVG only defines where the laser works; your settings define how.
Fill, Line and Offset: choosing the right operation
- Fill engraves the inside of each closed shape with back-and-forth passes. Use it for logos, lettering and solid areas. With a vector, the edges of the engraving follow the curve exactly, so they look sharper than engraving a bitmap.
- Line follows the path once. Use it to cut out shapes or to score thin outlines. Because Vecfy shapes are filled, a Line operation traces their outer and inner edges.
- Offset creates a new path a set distance outside (or inside) the design, perfect for cutting a sticker-style border or a shape around a logo.
A common workflow for a branded coaster: engrave the logo with Fill, then create an offset circle and cut it with Line. Two layers, one file, one job. For vinyl or paper versions of the same design, the file also works on cutting machines; see SVG files for Silhouette Cameo.