Laser Cut Files 101
Pick the right file format the first time and avoid wasted material
The 5 Most Common Laser Cut File Formats
Scalable Vector Graphics
The most universal format. Easy to edit and exported by Canva, Figma, Inkscape and Illustrator.
Drawing Exchange Format
The CAD standard. Exact geometry, ideal for technical drawings and precise parts.
Adobe Illustrator
Full layer and color support. Common in professional design workflows.
Portable Document
Works only if it contains vector paths. A rasterized PDF cannot be cut.
Encapsulated PostScript
Older vector standard, still accepted by many shops and software.
Vector vs Raster
Vector: can cut
Lines are mathematical paths that scale without loss. SVG, DXF, AI, vector PDF and EPS.
Raster: engrave only
Images made of pixels that blur when enlarged. JPG, PNG and BMP. Trace to vector before cutting.
Get a Cut-Ready File in 4 Steps
Start with vector artwork
Download an SVG or DXF, or draw it in Inkscape or Illustrator.
Convert text to paths
Outline fonts so your laser software does not substitute them.
Set the right scale
Check dimensions in your laser software before sending the job.
Test on scrap
Run a small cut to confirm fit, kerf and settings.
Common mistakes
Saving as JPG or PNG, flattening layers, leaving fonts un-outlined, using strokes that are too thin, and exporting a raster PDF.