DXF · Glowforge · SVG · xTool ·

How to Prepare SVG & DXF Files for Glowforge and xTool: Format, Settings, Pro Tips

Accurate vector files are the backbone of clean laser cuts. Whether you run a Glowforge or an xTool, proper file prep prevents wasted material and keeps your jobs on spec.
Below is a step-by-step technical guide you can publish on your Shopify blog.

1. Choose the Right Format: SVG vs DXF vs AI

Format Strengths When to Use
SVG Native to Glowforge & xTool, preserves layers, colors, and scale All general cutting & engraving projects
DXF CAD-friendly, precise unit control Engineering drawings, parametric parts
AI Powerful editing in Adobe Illustrator Design stage only → always export final to SVG

Pro tip: Export SVG at 72 dpi, units in millimeters. Keep the artboard to the exact size of the material bed to avoid scale shifts.

2. Recommended Software

  • Adobe Illustrator (industry standard, full layer control)
    Save as SVG 1.1, “Responsive” unchecked.

  • Inkscape (free & lightweight)
    Use “Plain SVG,” not “Inkscape SVG,” to avoid proprietary metadata.

  • CorelDRAW (popular in sign-making)
    Export to SVG with Hairline strokes for cutting.

3. Document Setup & Layer Mapping

  1. Canvas Size – Match your material (e.g., 300 mm × 200 mm).

  2. Color Coding for Operations –
    Red (RGB 255,0,0): Cut
    Blue (RGB 0,0,255): Score
    Black: Engrave/fill

  3. Stroke Weight – 0.001 in (≈0.025 mm) for cuts. Glowforge ignores stroke width but xTool uses it to define vector vs. raster.

4. Path & Geometry Checks

  • Convert text to outlines/paths (Object > Expand in Illustrator).

  • Merge or combine overlapping shapes to prevent double cuts.

  • Use “Simplify Path” to reduce node count (<1000 nodes per shape recommended for Glowforge).

5. Device-Specific Settings

Glowforge

  • Supports: SVG, PDF.

  • Upload via Glowforge App.

  • Material presets auto-apply speed/power, but ensure your vectors are on cut layers to avoid default engraving.

xTool (D1 / P2 / M1)

  • Supports: SVG, DXF, AI.

  • Import to XCS (xTool Creative Space).

  • Check Optimize Path option to reduce travel time.

  • Recommended kerf compensation: 0.1 mm for 3 mm plywood.

6. Pre-Flight Error Checklist

  • Units = mm (or consistent inches).

  • All paths closed; no stray anchor points.

  • No hidden layers or clipped masks.

  • File size <5 MB to avoid slow uploads.

7. Test Cuts & Power Calibration

Run a small square or circle from the same file to dial in:

  • Power vs. Speed for your material thickness.

  • Focus height to ensure crisp edges.

8. Ready-Made Resources

Need production-ready designs?
Explore our Laser Cut Mega Bundles—every file comes in SVG, DXF, and AI, pre-checked for Glowforge and xTool compatibility.

Bottom Line:
Clean geometry + correct units + proper layer mapping = perfect cuts. Follow these steps once and your Glowforge/xTool workflow stays error-free on every job.

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