Exporting SVG Files
Overview
The SVG file format is most commonly used by art and design software. It is an XML-Based vector image format for 2D images. SVG allows for art/designs to scale without loss of fidelity. As opposed to DXF, SVG is an open format which can readily be transferred between multiple programs and most web browsers. This guide is for using your vector graphics program to export an SVG into the WAM software.
Background
There are different kinds of “functional areas” or feature sets in a SVG file type, but not all of them can work in WAM. Please see their difference below
Pixel image:
Non-vector based images are not compatible with WAM. WAM can only work with vectors or paths. One quick way to distinguish pixel image to vector is to zoom the image all the way in. If the image becomes “pixelated” upon zooming in, then it is a pixel image. Please refer to the steps below to convert the pixel image into vector outlines.
Vector or Path:
Consists of simple outlines and nodes. If you choose the vector tool and highlight the section, you will see the highlighted portion surrounded by nodes and outlines.
Path is the only feature that can work in WAM.
Shape:
Polygons or circles that are drawn out directly. This feature cannot work in WAM, you need to covert the shapes into enclosed paths. (In Inkscape, use “object to path” function)
Text:
Unicode characters that are displayed by typing letters directly. This feature also cannot work in WAM. You will need to convert the text into paths, either using “object to path” or “stroke to path”. We recommend using “stencil fonts” to achieve the best results.
Painting, color, gradient, patterns, etc., all cannot work in WAM.
To conclude, please only import “path” file into WAM.
Method 1: Outline Tracing
Once the piece is completed, make sure all paths are continuous.
A quick check for this is to click View > Display Mode > Outline (or cycle through with CTRL + 5) to see if there are any gaps.
2. Save the project as an SVG file. Save As…> then name your file and save it wherever needed.
3. Login to your WAM account and import the file
4. Proceed as normal for cutting.
For steps on how to use the WAM software, please see this page.
Method 2: Trace Bitmap
1. Import a scanned picture into Inkscape
2. Select Trace Bitmap
3. Adjust the parameter to get a clear picture with not too many "knots"
4. What you are looking for is the "knot" and "path" in the final results. You may simply view the "knots" as the coordinates, and "path" as directions. The combination of coordinates and directions dictate the cut path.
5. Import the SVG into WAM.
Method 3: Bezier Curve Tracing
If you scan or picture is not of great quality, i.e., the background is messy and Inkscape cannot clearly discern the boundaries, you may need to use the "Beizer curve" to manually trace out the boundary. You may also use a drawing pad in this step.
1. Load the picture into Inkscape. Then select "Bezier Curve " function
2. Manually trace the outline of the intended cut features. Then delete the base picture, and save the Bezier Curve as “Plain SVG“
3. Load the saved SVG file into WAM.
A good feature of Inkscape is that the flat drawing pad can be used directly. You may come up with the sketch in the Inkscape and use the above two methods to find the boundary.
Having said that, there are many more ways to prepare the SVG in Inkscape. Please feel free to explore.