Laser cutters often differentiate between cutting and engraving by color or layers:
Cutting lines: Usually assigned a specific color (often red) and a stroke thickness of 0.001 inches (0.0254 mm) or hairline width.
Engraving or marking: Assigned another color (like black or blue) with a filled shape or thicker stroke.
Scoring: Sometimes assigned a third color or layer.
This color coding helps the laser cutter software recognize what operation to perform on each path.
5. Use Hairline Stroke Width
For cut lines, set the stroke width to hairline or the minimum line thickness your laser cutter can read (often 0.001 inch or 0.025 mm). This tells the laser to cut along the center of the line rather than cutting a wider path.
6. Simplify Your Design
Avoid too many tiny details, especially if the material is thin or the laser beam has a minimum width.
Remove unnecessary anchor points to make paths smoother.
Use Bézier curves for smooth edges rather than many small straight segments.
7. Check for Closed Paths
Laser cutters cut around closed paths to create raster to vector conversion service shapes. Open paths can confuse the machine and lead to incomplete cuts. Ensure all shapes to be cut are closed vectors.
8. Convert Text to Outlines
Text should be converted to vector outlines (paths) to avoid font issues when transferring files. This ensures the laser cutter cuts the actual letter shapes rather than trying to interpret the font.
9. Export in Compatible Format
Most laser cutters accept DXF or AI files, but SVG and PDF are also common. Check your laser cutting service or machine specs and export your vector file accordingly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using raster images: Do not send JPG or PNG files for cutting; they won’t work properly.
Thick stroke lines: Lines that are too thick may cause double cutting or errors.
Unclosed paths: Shapes must be closed to cut properly.
Overlapping paths: Can cause the laser to cut multiple times over the same area, damaging material.
Incorrect file format: Using incompatible formats can cause loss of detail or errors.
Testing Your Vector Design
Before full production, it’s advisable to test cut your design on the actual material or similar scrap. This helps you:
Verify dimensions and fit.
Check cut quality.
Adjust power, speed, or frequency settings on the laser.
Final Thoughts
Preparing vector graphics for laser cutting is a critical step that requires attention to detail and understanding of how laser cutters interpret digital files. With the right software, clean paths, correct line weights, and appropriate file formats, your design can be transformed flawlessly from a digital drawing into a precise physical product.
If you’re new to laser cutting, consider collaborating with professionals or laser cutting services to optimize your designs. Many providers offer file checking and preparation services to ensure your vector graphics meet the technical requirements.
Laser cutting combined with well-prepared vector graphics opens a world of possibilities — from personalized gifts and intricate jewelry to industrial parts and architectural models. Mastering vector preparation ensures your creative visions become tangible masterpieces.
Assign Different Colors or Layers for Different Operations
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