How to Vectorize Image for Laser Engraving
Vectorizing an image for laser engraving converts the raster source into clean vector paths that define the engraved areas. Vector engraving produces sharper, faster, and more consistent results than bitmap scan engraving for logos, text, and line art.
About How to vectorize image for laser engraving
When to use vector engraving vs raster engraving: - Vector engraving: best for logos, text, line art, and designs with clean boundaries. The laser follows each path — fast, clean, and consistent depth. - Raster engraving: best for photographs, gradients, and halftone art. The laser scans row by row — slower but capable of rendering grayscale tones.
How to vectorize an image for laser engraving: 1. Start with a high-contrast source image. Black-on-white logos vectorize most cleanly. 2. Upload the image to the vectorizer above. 3. Download the SVG output. 4. Import into LightBurn. Assign the design to the Fill layer for engraving, or Line for outline engraving. 5. Set engraving parameters: speed, power, and line interval (DPI equivalent) for the material. 6. Run a test engrave on scrap material to calibrate parameters before production.
Material-specific settings: - Wood and leather: lower speed, higher power for deeper engraving; increase line interval for faster production. - Anodized aluminum: use LightBurn Fill + Line mode for clean filled engraving with an outline. - Acrylic: vector engraving only — use low power and high speed to avoid burning. - Rubber stamps: high power, slow speed for deep relief engraving.
LightBurn layer assignment: - Red layer (C00): cut operations - Blue layer (C01): line engraving - Black layer (C02): fill engraving
Use the vectorizer above to prepare any image for clean laser engraving output.