A Guide on Using SVG Cutting Files for Crafting Projects
When it comes to designing and creating crafting projects using cutting machine software, you will need svg cutting files. Every cutting machine features specialized software and usually works with specific file types. You can also upload compatible files to the software for new designs. Cricut and Silhouette are among the most commonly used cutting machines and SVG file formats are compatible with almost all the machines available.
Graphic designers and artists create svg cutting files when looking to create a design to work with these machines.
photo Alyson Jones
What is a Cutting Machine?
Cutting machines are designed for creating different types of crafting projects. Silhouette and Cricut are among the most commonly used cutting machine applications. These machines are powered by specialized software. You can create designs in this software or upload svg cutting files from other source. The advantage of using such machines for crafting is that they save valuable time by speeding up the project.
Cutting machines can cut more types of materials than just vinyl and paper. In fact, some machines can cut dozens of materials. Some of the materials that can be cut using these machines include:
- Aluminum
- Thin wood
- Chipboard
- Wood
Some machines can be fitted with deep-cut blades to cut even thicker materials.
Upload Own SVG Images
You can upload your own svg cutting files that have been formatted to be compatible with the software. There are different image file types that can be used for the purpose. SVG stands out because it is vector-based and is scalable.
SVG graphics are scalable because mathematical formulas are used for creating the image. The graphics can be resized anyway without any pixelation or distortion. This makes this file type perfect for crafting projects of different sizes. SVG (Scalable Vector Graphic) is a 2D XML based vector image format. The advantage of using it with cutting machines is that it tells it where to cut lines.
Applications for Crafting
When it comes to using cut files, Cricut and Silhouette use their respective software to edit and design the images. The two platforms are powered by the following applications:
- Cricut: Design Space
- Silhouette: Silhouette Studio
Both the applications feature free versions. Silhouette can work with svg cutting files in its paid version.
Some of the other programs that can work with SVG files include the following:
- Adobe Creative Suite Programs includes several programs under the Adobe brand, such as PhotoShop, Illustrator, and Animate. Illustrator can also be used to create SVG files.
- Non-Adobe applications such as Microsoft Visio, Corel PaintShop Pro, CorelDraw, and CADSoftTools ABViewer.
- GIMP, Inkscape and other free applications. You will have to download this software to your system to open svg cutting files.
- Some applications such as Picozu can open SVG format files online. This eliminates the need to download and install the software.
Thus, in using svg cutting files, you are able to benefit from the flexibility that this file format offers. It can help simplify and speed up your crafting projects.
Author: Mariia Lvovych
