SVG & DXF Resources

SVG and DXF both describe geometry, but they come from different worlds: SVG from the web, DXF from engineering. That history explains most import problems.

SVG in practice

SVG is text-based XML. It supports fills, strokes, groups and CSS. For cutting you care about paths, not fills. Two things cause trouble:

• Units — an SVG can declare millimetres, inches or pixels. Some exporters omit the size entirely.
• Strokes — a hairline stroke is not a cut path. Convert strokes to outlines if your software requires it.

Before cutting, import, measure a known dimension and confirm the scale. The unit converter handles the pixel/DPI case.

DXF in practice

DXF is a CAD exchange format with many versions and dialects. Splines, blocks and hatches may import differently between programs. Practical rules:

• Export the simplest DXF your software offers — usually R12 or 2D-only.
• Explode blocks and convert splines to polylines if your CAM struggles.
• Keep one layer for cuts and another for engraving.
• Open the exported file in the software that will run the machine, not only in the one that made it.

Kerf and compensation

Neither format knows your kerf. Compensation belongs either in your CAD drawing or in the machine software — never both. Measure kerf on the actual material and record it; the kerf calculator turns it into slot and hole dimensions.

Where to get files responsibly

Check the licence before downloading anything, especially for commercial work. Prefer sources that state the licence clearly and show real cut results. Avoid re-uploaded files with no author or terms — the licence usually does not travel with them.

Export checklist

1. Dimensions in millimetres, verified against a known feature.
2. Closed paths, no duplicates, text converted to curves.
3. Separate layers for cut and engrave.
4. Kerf applied once, in one place.
5. Test cut a small section before running the full sheet.

Related reading

• How to measure kerf
• Laser cutting designs
• Free laser cutting tools