For free software, Inkscape is very powerful and there is a large community of users posting tutorials and YouTube videos. It is very similar to Adobe Illustrator or CorelDraw but is typically missing some of the most recent tools. Inkscape is an open source (meaning it is free) vector graphic software. A vector graphic can be easily used to generate g-code.

Vector graphics are best for scalable images like logos or for engineering CAD. The position of lines and edges is calculated mathematically so the image will be very accurate and independent of resolution.

They can also be defined with dimensions such that real-world objects can be represented in true scale. Because of this, they can be scaled to any size without losing quality. Vector graphics (SVG, DXF, DWG) use mathematical operations to calculate points or edges (paths) of shapes. They are not precise enough for representing a scaled image or a real-world object. Raster images are the most common digital image and are best for photographs and images with a lot of shading. Also, if the edge of a line were to fall between two pixels, it will get averaged and appear blurry or shaded. The image will appear clearly at its intended resolution but will lose quality when scaled since pixels will be averaged. Pixel size is set by the resolution of the raster image based on the number of pixels per inch. The image is made from a fixed number of pixels, but the size of a pixel is not defined. Raster images, (JPEG, BITMAP, PNG, TIFF) are created by a grid of coloured squares, called pixels. Difference between Vector Graphics and Raster Images Not all image types are suitable for generating g-code for CNC machines. Therefore, if we want to make something on a CNC machine we first need a scaled, mathematical model of it. The programs that control a CNC machine are generated mathematically from a digital model of the object or design that is to be created. Movement of a CNC machine is controlled by programs (G-Code) which move the machine to specific positions or along specific paths.

2.9 Harder (Manual) Way to Trace an Image for CNC.

2.8 Will This Work for Text and Fancy Fonts?.

1.1 Difference between Vector Graphics and Raster Images.

1 Why Vector Graphics Are Required For CNC.

Inkscape logo tutorial using an image