Vector files, specifically SVG’s, are the preferred file format for laser cutting. Vector file lines will not lose any quality if they are resized very large for a giant sign or very tiny to put on a personalized engraving or to make a delicate lapel pin. SVG stands for “Scalable Vector Graphic”. What’s a Vector File? What’s an SVG File? JPG and PNG are ‘Raster’ or ‘Non-Vector’ file formats and will only allow engraving. However, SVG & PDF are the only Vector file formats for uploading into the Glowforge machine that will allow you to utilize all features: cut, score, and engrave. Glowforge can print JPG, PNG, SVG and PDFs. You’ll just need an up-to-date version of Google Chrome, Firefox, Apple Safari, or Microsoft Edge. You can use your Glowforge from your Mac, PC or tablet. What Hardware Do I need to Use with Glowforge? Before we talk about the specific Glowforge Software options, let’s first look at the requirements of what we need to work with and use our Glowforge machines fully.

Using inkscape for glowforge