Vector files for LightBurn LightBurn reads the file; you decide what it does with each color.
LightBurn imports vector files such as SVG, AI, PDF and DXF and groups the shapes by color into layers, each with its own cut, score or engrave settings. For a clean job, send closed shapes at real-world size, one color per operation, text converted to outlines, and no stray or duplicate lines. Raster images can be engraved, but they can't be cut.
Formats LightBurn imports
SVG, AI, PDF and DXF are the usual vector choices. DXF carries no color in many exports, so the shapes may arrive on one layer; SVG and AI keep the colors you set. Raster images such as PNG or JPG import for engraving only.
File checklist
- Closed shapes for anything that should be cut out.
- One color per operation: for example one for cut, one for score, one for engrave.
- Real-world size, with units the shop expects.
- Text converted to outlines.
- No duplicate lines stacked on top of each other; the laser would cut twice.
- Hairline strokes for cut lines; LightBurn uses the path, not the stroke width.
Common problems
| Problem | What you see | Fix in the file |
|---|---|---|
| Open paths | A fill won't engrave, or a part doesn't drop out | Close and join the paths |
| Duplicate lines | Double cuts and scorched edges | Delete the copies |
| Wrong scale | The part comes out the wrong size | Set the artwork at real size and units |
| Auto-traced art | Thousands of tiny segments, slow and jerky cuts | Redraw with fewer, smoother curves |
Kerf and exact-size parts
The beam removes a thin line of material, so parts that must fit together need their cut paths offset by half the kerf.
Read DXF kerf compensation for how that offset works.
Get it redrawn as clean vector, set up for the job.
A designer redraws it by hand as closed paths, with the colors and layers your process needs, in 24 hours.
Need something custom? Email hello@vectorwiz.com
Frequently asked questions
Which file format is best for LightBurn?
SVG or AI keep your colors as layers. DXF works too but often arrives without colors. All three need closed shapes for cutting.
Why won't LightBurn fill my shape?
Usually because the path is open. Fill and engrave need closed shapes; join the endpoints or redraw the shape.
Can LightBurn cut a PNG?
No. It can engrave a raster image, but cutting needs vector paths.
Imran Hossain
Owns the tooling and automation behind our workflow. Keeps file output precise and consistent.
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