7 Steps on How to Create DXF Files for Laser Cutting

When it comes to laser cutting, DXF (Drawing Exchange Format or Drawing Interchange Format) is among the most common file formats alongside SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics). It feeds vectors to laser cutting machines, which turn the designs into cutting instructions. DXF is an open-source file type, which means that you can use a whole variety of software to create vectors. Inkscape® is free to use and is what we’ll be using for this article on the seven steps to create DXF files for laser cutting.

Step 1: Select an Image

The initial step is to find the image you want to use, and it can be in any format. But the images that tend to work best have strong outlines. In our example, we’re using the mortarboard shown in the image below:

Step 2: Edit Image Layers

The image we selected will cause an issue when laser cutting if left unedited. You’ll see in the image below, that there’s a gap between the top and bottom parts of the image:

If we were to upload the image into Inkscape like this, we’d have two problems to deal with. Firstly, the software will register this as two separate pieces and cut them out accordingly, which isn’t what we want. Secondly, even if that’s what we wanted, the lines are close enough to potentially cause the material to warp. So, the way to fix this is to remove the gap before inputting the image into Inkscape. Here’s how we edited it:

Step 3: Import into Inkscape and Trace Bitmap

Once you’ve opened Inkscape, click on File > Open as shown below:

This will open a window that allows you to pick the image you want to import. Select it, and click “Open” like so:

A box will appear that allows you to change the image settings, but you can leave these as standard and go ahead and click “Ok” as shown below:

Your image should now be imported into Inkscape and look something like this:

To trace the bitmap, select Path > Trace Bitmap. It should look like this:

You’ll see a Bitmap menu appear on the right, which gives you further options. The point of this is to trace the silhouette and create a line for the laser cutter. Your screen should look a little something like this:

Make sure you select the image for this to work and click on “Apply.” When it’s done its thing, the silhouette will appear on top of the image like so:

Move the new silhouette to the side, and delete the original. Then you’ll just be left with the new image as shown below:

Step 4: Create the Bases or Hanging Holes (Optional)

If you want to create a base or hanging hole for the piece, now’s the time to do it. The following image is an example of what a hanging hole might look like:

To make one yourself, use the circle tool on the toolbar on the left, and hold Ctrl + Alt while drawing to make a perfect circle. If you want to make a base, though, you can draw the additional parts like this:

Step 5: Make Page Orientation Changes

When the software has mapped out and traced your image, it’s likely that it won’t all fit on the page, but don’t worry because it’s an easy fix. Select all the pictures and go to File > Document Properties. In the box that pops up (shown in the next image), click on “Resize to content.” That will make the page fit to your design and save scrap.

Step 6: Export to DXF

When you're good to go, head over to File > Save as to export your design. In the dropdown, select “Desktop Cutting Plotter (AutoCAD® DXF R14)” as shown in the next image:

When the dialog box pops up, go ahead and click “Ok” like so:

Step 7: Import the DXF File and Start Cutting

Import the DXF file into your laser cutting software, and take your time choosing the speed and power based on what the manufacturer recommends for the material and thickness you’re using. Once everything is set and your laser is at an appropriate distance from the cutter, go ahead and cut.

Copyright and Trademark Notices

1. AutoCAD® and Fusion® are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates, in the United States.
2. Inkscape® is a registered trademark of Software Freedom Conservancy, Inc.
3. Linux® is a registered trademark owned by Linus Torvalds.
4. Adobe® Illustrator® is a registered trademark of Adobe in the United States and/or other countries.

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