Laser Cut Files in Inkscape
Free software, a few clicks and a clean SVG ready for your laser.
One of the most common questions from new laser owners is how to make their own cut files. You do not need expensive software. Inkscape is free, runs on Windows, Mac and Linux, and exports the SVG files that almost every laser program accepts.
6 Steps to a Clean Cut File
Set the page size
Open Document Properties and set the page to millimeters at your real material size, so the design exports at the right scale.
Draw your shapes
Use the rectangle, circle and path tools. Keep shapes closed, since open paths often cut unevenly.
Combine shapes
Use Path then Union to merge overlapping shapes into one outline, and Difference to cut holes out of a shape.
Convert text to paths
Select your text and choose Path then Object to Path Shift+Ctrl+C, so fonts never get substituted.
Set stroke and fill
For cut lines, use no fill and a very thin stroke. Many laser programs treat thin strokes as cut lines, so check your software.
Save as SVG
Save as SVG and import it into your laser software. Check the dimensions before you press start.
Color Code Your Operations
A simple color system keeps your files tidy and lets your laser software apply the right settings to each color.
Red lines: cut
Outer shapes and holes that go all the way through.
Black fills: engrave
Filled areas and raster-style marks on the surface.
Dark red lines: score
Light lines for folds or guides that should not cut through.
Watch: Inkscape for Laser Cutting Beginners
Test before you cut
Cut your first version from cardboard. If pieces must fit together, test the fit and adjust sizes in tiny steps to account for the kerf.
After a handful of projects, these steps become automatic. Save your best files as templates and you will design new pieces in minutes.