How to Prepare an Image for a CNC Router
CNC routers require vector file inputs — DXF or SVG. Preparing a raster image for a CNC router involves vectorizing to get clean paths, simplifying nodes, and exporting in the format your CAM software expects.
About How to prepare image for CNC router
CNC routers (Shapeoko, X-Carve, Onefinity, Avid CNC) require vector file inputs — DXF, SVG, or the native format of the CAM software. Here is the full workflow for preparing any image for a CNC router.
Step 1 — Vectorize the image: upload the PNG, JPG, or scanned image to the vectorizer. The vectorizer traces the image outlines into clean SVG paths. For CNC routing, high-contrast images with clear boundaries produce the most accurate paths.
Step 2 — Clean up the SVG: open the SVG in Inkscape. Remove interior fill regions if you only need the outer contour. Use Path > Simplify (Ctrl+L) to reduce node count — this produces smoother toolpaths in the CAM software. Node density between 20–50 nodes per inch of path length is ideal for CNC routing.
Step 3 — Export to DXF: go to File > Save As > DXF R14 in Inkscape. DXF is the most universally accepted format for CNC CAM software including Vectric VCarve, Carbide Create, Fusion 360 CAM, and Mastercam.
Step 4 — Import into CAM software: import the DXF into your CAM software. Define the toolpath type: pocket, contour, drill, or engrave. Assign tool diameter, depth of cut, stepover, and feed rate. Generate G-code for the CNC controller.
Common issues: open paths produce incomplete toolpaths — ensure all paths are closed before DXF export. Overlapping paths can cause double-cut toolpath errors — remove duplicate geometry in Inkscape before exporting.