Table of Contents

• What is vectorization?
• Common vector formats
  • DXF
  • DWG
  • SVG
• Why vectorize an image?
  • Raster vs vector
    • Common raster formats
  • For use with CAD
• How does vectorization work?
  • Manual tracing
  • Automatic tracing
• Pre-vectorization
  • Clean up for optimal results
• Post-vectorization
  • CAD software options

What is vectorization?

Vectorization refers to the process of converting an image to a vector format. While raster files are made up of pixels, vector images are made up of a collection of individual objects. These objects may be in the form of arcs, lines, text, etc. Each one is defined by a mathematical equation. This means that even if you zoom in on the image or re-scale it, the quality will not be compromised.

The same cannot be said for raster files. Zooming in or resizing an image stored in a raster format will result in pixelation—thus, the quality will suffer. As a result of these kinds of drawbacks, people looking to create, share and edit designs with CAD software will need to vectorize their raster images.

Common vector formats

DXF

DXF is a vector file format developed by Autodesk. It was created with the intention of allowing users to share their designs between multiple CAD programs. This explains its full title: Design eXchange Format. DXF is an open source format, which means that developers can include support for it in their software without having to pay for licensing. This has the effect of making the sharing process easier. Even if you’re working with AutoCAD drawings, for example, other people do not necessarily need to have Autodesk software to access them (which can be an issue with some other vector file types).

Thanks to these benefits, DXF has become the standard file format for data exchange within CAD. Industries across the globe are able to successfully collaborate on projects without being restricted to a single type of CAD software. We highly recommend using DXF files if you’re looking to be able to share your designs.

DWG

DWG is a file format that was also developed by Autodesk. Initially created in the late 1970s, DWG was included alongside DXF from the very first version of AutoCAD in 1982. So, what makes it different? Well, DWG is the native file format for AutoCAD. DWG files are designed to be used with this specific software in mind and should enable you to get the most out of all of its features. This file format is therefore a great option if you work primarily with AutoCAD.

DWG stand for ‘drawing‘, with both 2D and 3D images being supported. As you can probably guess, the downside to this file type is that not all programs (especially those not made by Autodesk) will be able to access DWG files. It’s still not the end of the world if you find yourself needing to open DWG files and you don’t have the native software. While you might not be able to edit the images, there are ways you can at least view DWG files without AutoCAD.

SVG

Standing for Scalable Vector Graphics, this vector format is—you guessed it!—particularly useful if you’re going to be re-scaling your designs.

What separates SVG from other vector files, like DXF and DWG, is the fact that SVGs are suited primarily for use on the web, rather than with CAD. Practically all web browsers support this format. Plus, it’s easy to embed SVG images into web pages, making them a great replacement for raster images in this realm.

Why vectorize an image?

Raster vs vector

While raster and vector formats can both be useful in their own ways, vector images are a necessary choice if you’re looking to use your designs in a CAD context. We’ve already touched on the quality issues that come with re-scaling images that are a collection of pixels—and that’s not where the issues end.

Raster images need to store color information for every single pixel, resulting in the file sizes being fairly hefty. This isn’t ideal in terms of computer storage. You also might not be very popular with the colleagues you share designs with, as you’ll be forcing them to download large files.

Raster images can still be of a high quality and are useful for those working in roles involving digital photography or web design. Additionally, despite their large size, most standard image editing software supports raster files, so they can be useful for sharing and storing images. However, if you need to edit individual elements within your image, or make it compatible with CNC software, vectorization is the way to go.

Common raster formats

For use with CAD

The major advantage to vectorizing an image is that they can then be easily edited with CAD or CNC software. Remember those individual elements we referred to earlier? Well, each one can be recognized by CAD software and edited separately. This means that, whether you’re dealing with lines, paths or curves, each can be tweaked without making changes to the rest of the image. Every object is designated its own mathematical formula, allowing for a significant level of precision in the editing process.

As we’ve already mentioned, while you’re editing a design, you can zoom in and out of the image to your heart’s content, without the overall quality being affected. This is not the case with raster images—designs cannot be edited pixel by pixel and zooming or rescaling can leave you looking at a blurry image. As a result, if you’re looking to use your images in CAD, vector formats are certainly the way to go.

How does vectorization work?

In order to vectorize an image, the original raster version must be traced. This can be done either manually (by hand), or automatically (by a computer).

Let’s look at the pros and cons of each option…

Manual tracing

Manual tracing is exactly what it sounds like—physically drawing vector elements over the raster image. This is usually achieved using either a graphics pen or computer mouse. You will need to possess both basic drawing skills and a lot of patience to complete this task. If that sounds doable, there are certain benefits to this approach.

Carrying out the tracing yourself means you can closely control the entire process. Computers might be very clever, but they are yet to be able to recognise small details in images as accurately as the human eye. Doing it yourself is therefore the better option if your image is low quality, as you’ll be able to pick up details that may be missed by vectorization software. Converting an image through manual tracing can also be an interesting (if you’re a design enthusiast) and rewarding journey. You’ll be improving your skills and no doubt learning new things along the way.

On the other hand, be careful not to be too ambitious. Unless you’re a professional tracer, the manual approach should only be attempted if the image you’re working with is fairly simple. Otherwise, vectorizing the image could turn out to be an incredibly time-consuming and burdensome task. Be prepared for what you’re setting yourself up for!

Automatic tracing

If you don’t fancy doing all the work yourself, there’s a range of software out there that can automatically trace the image for you. Once your work has been opened with a conversion program, the technology is able to detect the features of your raster image and trace over them with vector entities. Thanks to constantly improving technology, many programs can now produce highly professional results in an amazingly short amount of time.

Automatically tracing a technical drawing floorplan using Scan2CAD

Take Scan2CAD, for example. Our software makes the conversion process quick and easy. Open your raster image in Scan2CAD, run vectorization and export the image to your chosen vector format.

In a matter of seconds you’ll have a professional vector image with which to work. To have a go at this yourself, download the free trial below.

Despite the obvious convenience of automatic tracing, you will need to make sure that your original raster image is appropriate and optimized for the conversion process. In other words, you should ‘clean‘ the image. 

Pre-vectorization

Clean up for optimal results

Once you’ve decided to vectorize an image, there’s a couple of steps you need to take before actually starting the process. In order to achieve the best results possible, make sure your raster image is of a high quality before conversion. Ensure you do this even if you think your original image is fine—there are often flaws that you won’t notice at first glance.

Beware of these common image problems.

There are a few different steps you can take to clean up an image to make it suitable for conversion. These include altering the color depth, smoothing or thickening lines, and ensuring any holes are removed. For a thorough description of what each of these steps involve, and others you should take, consult Scan2CAD’s raster quality checklist.

Be aware that if your original image is broken, fuzzy, or contains overlaid information, it is unlikely to be suitable for vectorization. If you notice any of these features, select a new starting image before wasting any time attempting to vectorize.

Once your chosen image is as clean as you can make it, you’re good to go!

Post-vectorization

Now that you have professional standard vector images to play with, you can get to work making the most of your designs! But how to start? Well, when it comes to CAD, you have a wide range of software options. Consult the following table to learn more about some of the top names in the industry. 

CAD software options

Scan2CAD’s latest guide will show you exactly how you can convert PDF to CAD in a few simple steps. Plus, we’ll show you how you can get Scan2CAD for free!

What are PDFs?

PDF, or Portable Document Format, is easily one of the most popular file formats you’ll find. Why exactly? Since its first release in 1993, PDF has become the go-to format for exchanging documents. Unlike many other formats—like Microsoft Word’s .doc—the text or images displayed on a PDF tend to be displayed in an identical manner across all types of devices. In industries like media, this is ideal—you can rest assured knowing everyone you share your PDFs with will see the exact same thing you do. 

Another major benefit to the PDF format is that you don’t need specific software to view them—you can do it from the comfort of your chosen browser with absolutely no issue. Alternatively, you can use software like Adobe Reader, which tends to already be installed on most PCs. One of the most interesting aspects to the PDF format however, has to be its ability to support both raster and vector elements. As such, it can be difficult to categorize the file format as strictly “raster” or “vector”. 

While PDFs are great for displaying documents or general information, they’re incredibly difficult to edit. In fact, if you wanted to edit the information in a PDF, you’d generally have to convert to a different file format entirely. If you’re looking to use information in a PDF in CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks, for example, you’d have to convert your PDF to a CAD-friendly file format. We’ll show you exactly how you can do this below—and the issues you might come across along the way!

Converting to CAD

When we talk about converting PDF to CAD, we don’t mean “CAD” as a file type. Instead, we’re using it to refer to file types that run in CAD applications like AutoCAD. So if you’re looking to convert to use your PDF in CAD software, you’re going to first have to convert your PDF to a CAD-friendly format. In this case, you’ll be looking to convert your PDF to DXF or DWG. 

DWG

DWG is the native file format for none other than AutoCAD, one of the most popular CAD programs around. A proprietary file format owned by Autodesk, DWG has had a long and interesting history since its first release in 1982. Being a proprietary file format, any developer that wishes to use the format in their software has to first get a license to do so. Fortunately, nowadays, there are plenty of ways to view DWG without AutoCAD.

As you’d imagine, being the native file format for one of the leading CAD software packages on the market, DWG is used extensively around the globe. The format comes with a wide variety of advantages. To start, it comes with a small file size, as it is a binary file format. In turn, the compact nature of DWG files makes them perfect for sharing and collaborating. Of course, its compatibility with AutoCAD means that almost all CAD professionals and hobbyists will have encountered it at some point—making it a great format to use.

Furthermore, DWGs are able to support both 2D and 3D geometry. For example, it would be simple enough to create a 2D drawing of a design which can then be modified to 3D using Autodesk software. In addition, DWG files come with the ability to support AutoCAD elements like dynamic blocks and line weights.

DXF

As popular as the DWG file format is, it does come with some drawbacks. Paramount amongst these is that, despite the broader support that exists for DWG now, the format primarily exists to serve as the native file format for AutoCAD. But imagine if you wanted to share your CAD files with a collaborator who doesn’t use AutoCAD. You can’t guarantee that their program will support DWG files—something which could be potentially problematic. This is where the DXF file format comes in. An open standard format, DXFs are the closest thing the CAD industry has to a universal file format. 

So if you’re a designer who likes to use different software to AutoCAD, the DXF file format is an ideal solution—you’ll struggle to find a CAD software package that doesn’t support it. If you’re sharing CAD files with someone else and you’re not sure whether they have AutoCAD, you’re best off sending a DXF. 

Unlike DWGs, DXFs are not binary files—they’re made up of letters and numbers, so you’re facing a larger file size. Additionally, they don’t support some of AutoCAD’s specific CAD elements like dynamic blocks. As a result, you might find yourself losing data when opening your DXFs in programs like AutoCAD. 

How do I convert?

There are two ways to convert PDF to CAD: through manual or automatic tracing. As the name suggests, manual tracing will depend entirely on your input. That is, you have to open your PDF in a program and draw over it with an additional layer. You’ll trace over all the lines, shapes and text that you wish to convert. This method has the benefit of human understanding—you know exactly what you’re converting, unlike conversion software. While it can be time-consuming, it’s a great option if you’ve got plenty of time to spare. You can manually trace using the following software: 

• Inkscape
• Illustrator
• SketchUp

Bear in mind, however, that you’ll come across a few issues when attempting to manually trace PDFs. To start, some software packages don’t support PDFs—so you won’t be able to import them. Additionally, with the wide variety of information that PDFs carry, you might struggle to trace everything you see. 

Automatic tracing, by comparison, makes use of conversion software which—yes, as you guessed—automatically traces your image and converts it to a vector file format like DXF or DWG. Software like Scan2CAD, for example, will detect the lines and edges in your PDF and redraw them as vector lines, shapes and other entities—if you’re converting a raster PDF at least. In some cases, it can take as little as a few clicks and a few seconds to convert.

Can I use an online converter?

If you typed “convert PDF to CAD” into your chosen browser, you’d undoubtedly come across multiple online converters claiming to convert quickly and efficiently. Unfortunately, as with most things, this isn’t always the case. 

While online converters are generally free, they come with a wide variety of disadvantages. Strictly speaking, online converters can’t offer the same high-quality output as converters that are dedicated raster-to-vector solutions. Additionally, they always come with limitations—a limited file size upload or a limited number of conversions. Worse still, using an online converter can mean leaving your system open to security risks. 

Instead, you should make use of software that you can trust to keep you safe and give you the best possible output—that’s where Scan2CAD comes in!

Using Scan2CAD to convert PDF to CAD

As a market-leading raster-to-vector conversion software, you can expect only the best from Scan2CAD. With it, you can convert to and from a wide variety of file formats—not the least of which includes PDF to CAD formats like DXF and DWG. 

Unlike online converters and many other conversion tools, Scan2CAD is able to support and convert both raster and vector PDFs—and even PDFs that contain both raster and vector elements. 

Convert a raster PDF to CAD

If you’re using Scan2CAD, it couldn’t be any easier to convert your raster PDF to a DXF or DWG. All you need to do is ensure you’re using a high-quality PDF to start with, and you’ll be able to start the vectorization process. Simply load your raster PDF into Scan2CAD. Once you’ve done so, you can look through the vectorization settings available to ensure your conversion is as precise as possible. 

The steps to conversion are then as follows: 

•  : converts lines, curves and shapes to vectors
•  : to convert any raster text to vector text
•  : converts both raster lines and text to vectors

Then, all you have to do is choose the file format to save your raster PDF to—either DXF or DWG. It’s just as simple as it sounds—as you can see below…

Converting a technical drawing to vector with Scan2CAD

Convert a vector PDF to CAD

It can be difficult to convert vector PDFs to CAD file formats. Fortunately, Scan2CAD is fully equipped with the necessary tools to make it possible! 

• File management: in a single PDF, you might have hundreds of small raster images which might be treated separately by other converters—leaving you to have to reassemble your entire PDF by the end. Scan2CAD, by comparison, enables you to save each page as a single file. 
• Draws CAD arcs and circles: a disadvantage of PDFs is that they typically don’t save CAD arcs or circles—they’re made up of short lines or curves instead. Scan2CAD combats this by replacing these entities with true arcs and circles that are easily editable. 
• Retains PDF line types: as we’ve said, PDFs contain a wide variety of information, including different line types. Instead of converting these different types to the same continuous one like other converters, Scan2CAD saves them accurately as they are. 
• Retains PDF line widths: PDFs tend to contain specific line width information associated with each PDF vector entity—Scan2CAD retains this whilst giving you the option to turn them off if you’re saving to DXF. 

Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg! Click on the link below to see what else Scan2CAD can do…

Convert PDFs with raster and vector elements to CAD

If you’ve got a PDF that contains both raster and vector elements, you don’t have to worry at all—Scan2CAD does it as easy as pie! 

All you’ve got to do is load your PDF file into Scan2CAD as you would with a raster or vector PDF. A dialog box will then appear—it will give you the option to load raster elements, vector elements or both in your PDF. You have to click both to convert all of the elements in your PDF to DXF or DWG. 

To isolate the vector elements in your PDF, simply click View Vector File. You can also distinguish between the different types of vector entities present (such as lines and arcs) by using the View Vector Colors tool. With these tools, you can then figure out which PDF Import Settings to use—re-import your PDF and all of your vector elements should appear correctly. To isolate the raster elements in your PDF, simply use the steps listed above for converting raster PDFs to CAD. All you’ve got to do at the end is save your completed image as a DXF or DWG. 

Scan2CAD: Free Download

Scan2CAD isn’t just great for converting PDFs to CAD, it’s also great for converting any raster file type to a vector file format. Better still, it doesn’t merely apply a generic vectorization process to all images—using specific vectorization settings, Scan2CAD can offer you a specialized solution that’s perfect for your specific files.

Of course, it’s not just all about the vectorization tools—it’s also about the clean up! Scan2CAD comes with a range of pre- and post-processing cleaning tools that makes getting a perfect vector output possible. And with its support of a wide range of file types and market-leading features like Smart OCR and batch processing, it couldn’t be easier to convert to and from your chosen file formats. 

Don’t just take our word for it. Try out our free, 14-day trial with absolutely no limitations or obligations. That’s right—you don’t have to worry about file size limits or a limited number of conversions! Click on the link below to get started!

Nonetheless, PDF files aren’t perfect. Their strength in wide compatibility often proves a weakness in other areas. In short, they’re great when you only need to view a document; less good when you need to edit it. This can prove a particular problem if you work with software such as AutoCAD.

Luckily, there are ways to convert even the most complex PDF to AutoCAD-compatible file formats. In this guide, we’ll run through the reasons why you might need to perform such a conversion, provide a rundown on what not to do, and show you the best ways to convert any PDF to AutoCAD.

PDF files

Since its initial release in 1993, PDF has become a ubiquitous file format across the globe. Its popularity lies in its ability to display documents in an identical manner on virtually any device. This gives it an edge over formats such as Microsoft Word’s .doc and .docx formats, which can have inconsistent appearances on different displays. Meanwhile, its ability to store text gives it a clear advantage over simple raster file types.

The ability of PDF files to display various forms of data makes them harder to categorize than many other formats. PDFs are able, for example, to display raster images, such as photos or scanned sketches. However, they can also contain vector graphics—though they typically only support simpler entities, such as circles and lines. As a result, PDF is neither strictly a vector nor a raster file type, but a sui generis format.

There are obvious benefits to the complexity of PDF files—but also some drawbacks. A key issue is that PDF files exist to display information. If you wish to edit the contents of a PDF file, you’ll need to convert the file to another format in order to edit it in another program. A common editing software in the CAD industry, for example, would be AutoCAD. However, this conversion process can throw up numerous issues. This means that specific steps must be taken when converting from PDF to AutoCAD-compatible formats.

AutoCAD

As mentioned above, AutoCAD is one of the most commonly used CAD programs on the market. It is the flagship software from Autodesk, and offers users powerful 2D and 3D CAD functionality. For this reason, it is popular across a variety of industries, though it is particularly prominent in the AEC sector. Thanks to its linked application, AutoCAD 360, its users can now work on mobile devices or edit from the cloud.

AutoCAD allows its users to create detailed and accurate technical drawings: a must-have for engineers, architects and product designers. It also allows the attachment of relevant data to these drawings, transforming them from simple images into vital tools for the successful completion of a project.

File formats

The complex information that AutoCAD deals with requires a file format capable of storing it. Raster file types, which simply store color information, are, therefore, unsuitable. Instead, vector file formats are necessary. These formats store each object (such as a line or circle) as a separate, editable entity, to which a user can attach additional data. AutoCAD supports many different file extensions, though two stand out in particular: DWG and DXF.

DWG

The history of the DWG format goes hand in hand with that of AutoCAD itself. DWG has acted as the native file format for AutoCAD ever since its first release in 1982, and stands as one of the most popular file formats in CAD. Due to its popularity, there are also now a number of ways to view DWG files without AutoCAD.

Given its status as AutoCAD’s native file format, it should come as no surprise to learn that DWG is a vector file format. In fact, Autodesk updates the DWG format periodically to reflect changes to AutoCAD itself. This means that DWG is the ideal format for loyal AutoCAD users—particularly those who make use of AutoCAD-specific entities in their drawings. Additionally, DWG also supports both 2D and 3D graphics, making it a flexible choice for designers.

DXF

Though DWG is AutoCAD’s native format, Autodesk is well aware that it isn’t always a designer’s ideal choice. That’s why it created the DXF file format. Unlike DWG, which is intended primarily for use in AutoCAD, DXF is an open standard. This means that virtually any CAD software on the market can open a DXF file. As such, it’s ideal for users who often collaborate with designers who use alternatives to AutoCAD.

DXF is, in many ways, similar to DWG. Both are vector file formats, capable of displaying objects and data present in AutoCAD drawings. However, there are some key differences. DWG is intended to reflect the full range of AutoCAD entities and features. DXF, meanwhile, is meant to act as a lingua franca for many different types of CAD software. As such, it does not support many of the AutoCAD-specific entities that DWG does. It also lacks support for 3D graphics—though, unlike DWG, it is a suitable format for CNC machines.

Converting from PDF to AutoCAD-compatible formats

The PDF format, with its purpose as a medium for displaying information, differs completely from formats such as DWG and DXF, which are for creating and editing designs. However, oftentimes, designers will find themselves needing to edit designs stored as PDF files in AutoCAD.

The solution, therefore, is to convert their PDF to AutoCAD-compatible formats. Unfortunately, this is often easier said than done. Given the combination of raster data, vector entities and text that can make up a PDF, conversion can be tricky. That’s why we’ve put together this guide showing you the best way to convert your PDF to AutoCAD—with information covering raster, vector, and mixed files.

How not to convert from PDF to AutoCAD

Before we jump into the ways to convert from PDF to AutoCAD, let’s start off with a quick note on how not to do it.

For starters, it’s worth noting that, as useful as Google can be, it can often throw up some less-than-perfect results when it comes to PDF to AutoCAD conversion. Many of the first results you’re likely to find in a standard Google search will be online converters. These tools are generally free—but, as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for.

The quality of any conversion produced using an online tool is likely to be low—too low, in fact, to be useful in AutoCAD. Worse still, online conversion tools can leave you open to intellectual property and security risks. If you’re still tempted, make sure to check out our guide covering the pitfalls of online converters.

Meanwhile, some users may wish to try out manual tracing before committing to an automatic conversion tool. A key issue with this is that, whilst many manual tracing tools readily accept various raster file types, they often don’t support PDFs. If, somehow, you do find a tool that allows for manual tracing of PDFs, you’ll come up against another issue: manual tracing is hard. The process is time-consuming and demanding.

It’s certainly true that, if you have the time on your hands, you can achieve good results. However, PDFs can often contain a wealth of complex information. This means that achieving a great quality vector image through manual tracing usually isn’t worth the trouble. Visit our comparison of manual and automatic tracing for more information.

Importing PDFs directly into AutoCAD

For many years, it was impossible to directly import PDF data into AutoCAD. This all changed with AutoCAD 2017: the first release to include PDF file imports as a feature. In 2017, Autodesk built further upon this capability when they released AutoCAD 2018. Every year since, the functionality has been made available in the subsequent releases of the software, including AutoCAD 2023, the most recent version.

Now, it’s possible to import some PDF data into AutoCAD using the PDFIMPORT command. Supported data types include some vector geometry and text, including SHX text as of AutoCAD 2023. If you use this command, AutoCAD will import the data directly from the PDF, enabling you to edit this data and later save it as a DWG or DXF file.

However, it’s worth noting that this command has its limitations. To begin with, the PDFIMPORT command does exactly what it says on the tin—it imports data from a PDF. Whilst this might sound ideal, it can often cause problems. That’s because PDFs only support simple vector entities; AutoCAD, meanwhile, supports much more complex entities, and these might be necessary for your project. If you’re simply importing rather than converting, you could be missing out.

Still, AutoCAD does allow you to transform your vector PDF data into editable geometry. This is not, unfortunately, the case for the raster data in your PDF. The PDFIMPORT command will simply attach any raster data to your AutoCAD drawing as an xref, instead of converting it. If you have drawing data saved in the form of a sketch, this is, therefore, unsuitable for your needs.

Using Scan2CAD

Scan2CAD is the ultimate vectorization software, enabling users to convert to and from a number of different raster and vector formats. This includes the ability to vectorize PDF files in just a few clicks.

Scan2CAD’s automatic PDF-to-vector conversion makes it an ideal choice for any AutoCAD users looking to edit their PDFs. That’s because, unlike some other tools, it’s capable of converting both raster and vector PDFs. It can even handle PDF files which contain both raster and vector elements. Read on to learn exactly how to convert each type of PDF to AutoCAD.

Converting a raster PDF to AutoCAD

From a software point of view, raster-to-vector conversion is incredibly complex. That’s because raster images and vector graphics are totally different. A raster image is made up of colored pixels, whilst a vector image is made up of mathematically defined objects.

The only way to get from raster to vector is through automatic tracing. This involves Scan2CAD working out the appropriate vector entity types for different parts of a raster image. It’s trickier than it sounds!

Luckily, for a Scan2CAD user, the conversion process is simple. To begin with, try to ensure you use a good quality PDF—if necessary (or possible), rescan images to improve their quality. Once you’re happy that your raster PDF is good enough for conversion, load it into Scan2CAD.

Before starting the conversion process, select the best vectorization settings for your image. After that, there are three ways to vectorize your image:

•  : which converts lines, curves and shapes to vectors.
•  : to convert raster text to vector text.
•  : which converts the entire image (both lines and text) to vectors.

Finally, all you have to do is save your image as an AutoCAD-compatible format: DXF or DWG. And that’s it!

For more information, check out our ultimate guides to converting PDF to DXF and PDF to DWG.

Converting a vector PDF to AutoCAD

If your PDF file consists entirely of vector graphics, you may assume that the conversion process is simpler than that of a raster PDF. In some ways, this is true: Scan2CAD won’t need to perform the complex automatic tracing operations involved in vectorizing a raster image, for example.

However, converting from PDF to AutoCAD-compatible formats such as DWG and DXF throws up its own set of issues. This is because PDFs support only a limited range of vector entities. Additionally, some information is lost when saving a drawing in PDF format, resulting in elements being saved incorrectly. When converting your PDF to DWG or DXF, you’ll therefore have to convert these to the correct entities.

Luckily, Scan2CAD makes the process easy. Simply start by loading your vector PDF in Scan2CAD. Use the View Vector Colors tool to turn off the “true” colors of your vector PDF, and instead color vectors by type. You’ll then be able to explore your image, and see whether your entities have been imported correctly. If not, you can change Scan2CAD’s PDF Import Settings to suit the needs of your image. Settings include:

• Make Arcs, Beziers, Circles, Dash Lines, and Arrow Lines
• Load PDF Text
• Load Solid White Rectangles

Once you’ve chosen appropriate settings, you can re-import your vector PDF. The vector elements in your PDF should now appear correctly. If you’re still experiencing any issues, check out our guide to common DWG conversion problems to iron them out. Once everything is sorted, you can save your image as a DWG or DXF.

Converting a PDF with both raster and vector elements

Last, we’ll come to the most complex conversion of them all: converting a PDF containing both raster and vector graphics. Scan2CAD, however, makes this conversion a cinch.

Simply start by loading your PDF into Scan2CAD. You’ll see a dialog window pop up immediately if your file contains both raster and vector elements, with check boxes prompting you to load the raster elements in the PDF, the vector elements, or both. Ensure to check both boxes to convert all elements from PDF to AutoCAD.

From this point, the conversion process basically involves a combination of the two above elements. Using the View Vector Image and View Vector Colors tools, you can isolate the vector elements of the PDF, allowing you to judge the PDF Import Settings you need to use. You can then re-import your PDF, and all vector elements in your file should appear correctly.

Then, use the View Raster Image tool to show only the raster elements of your PDF. Follow the steps in the raster PDF to AutoCAD section above to vectorize these raster elements. Now, all elements in your PDF file should have been successfully converted to vector. All that’s left to do is save your image as a DXF or DWG file—and you’re done!

We hope this guide has covered everything you need to know on converting from PDF to AutoCAD. If you’re still curious, though, feel free to leave any more questions in the comments!

Scan2CAD has put together a guide showing you how you can trace using SketchUp ready for use in the program. We’ve even included alternative ways to trace an image for SketchUp or CAD/CNC. Plus, get a free download of Scan2CAD. 

Video Tutorial: Automatically Tracing an Image for SketchUp

First, let’s jump right into a video tutorial showing you how to use Scan2CAD to automatically convert your images for SketchUp.

What is tracing?

As you may already know, tracing—or vectorization—is the process of converting a raster image to a vector image. It can be done through manual or automatic tracing. 

• Manual tracing is completed by drawing over a raster image with a mouse. You could also make use of a tablet and graphics pen for a more hands-on approach. 

• Automatic tracing is completed with conversion software. It detects shapes and lines in your raster and draws over them with vector entities. 

If you’re not pressed for time, manual tracing can be very beneficial. You don’t have to use high quality raster images, because, unlike conversion software, you know and understand the image. Alternatively, if time is of the essence, you can opt for the speedier process of automatic tracing. Converters like Scan2CAD can enact the process in a matter of seconds, as opposed to hours. 

Vectorization is a vital process in industries like graphic design and engineering. Vector images, unlike rasters, allow for masses of crucial data to be attached to each element of an image. Additionally, they are infinitely scalable. This means you can display them at any size without loss of quality.

Another key advantage of using vectors is that you can easily edit each individual object within a vector image. You can even reuse them when creating new designs. It’s also possible to scan and trace old paper technical drawings, allowing to use the resulting vector output in CAD software.

For more information, check out raster versus vector. 

SketchUp

SketchUp—formerly Google Sketchup—is a 3D modeling program that can be used in a range of fields, from architecture to mechanical engineering to video game design. It’s available as freeware with SketchUp Make and a paid version with SketchUp Pro. It comes with 3D Warehouse—an online library—which provides free model assemblies like windows and vehicles which users can then share and use. 

Its learning curve isn’t too steep, so most people can pick it up quickly enough. While the Pro version comes with more capabilities, you can quite easily get away with just using the free version. 

Tracing using SketchUp

If you’re a fan of working with SketchUp, you might have wondered if it was possible to use it for tracing. The answer is yes—it is possible to manually trace an image in SketchUp. The video below for example, shows how to trace a portion of a bridge expansion joint using SketchUp: 

• Import your image into SketchUp. Click File > Import. The size of the image doesn’t matter—you can alter its scale at the end. You can also zoom in if you need a better look at the image. 

• Use a bright or noticeable color. Pick the color of your trace before you start; make sure it’s bright so that you can see it over your image. Head to Window > Styles > Profile. 

• Trace over your image. Use drawing tools such as line and arc. Zoom into the image to get it as accurate as you can. 

• Move the trace. Once you’ve completed the trace, you can select the lines to move it away from the original image. 

• Alter the scale. The scale can then be altered so that it’s more accurate or to your liking. 

Limitations and alternative methods

It can be time-consuming to trace using SketchUp, particularly if your image is complex. CAD drawings, for example, contain a variety of shapes, line types and text. Fortunately, there are alternate methods.

You could quite easily vectorize using Illustrator and export the vector paths to a DWG or DXF format, which you can then open and use in SketchUp. If you’re pressed for time, this would be a more viable method, because it involves automatic tracing. You can also do this with software like CorelDRAW and Inkscape.

But what if you’re looking for a specialized approach? CAD drawings are like fingerprints—each one is unique and, as such, requires a similarly unique conversion solution that takes different variables into consideration. This is where Scan2CAD—the ultimate vectorization software—comes in. 

Why choose Scan2CAD?

Scan2CAD specializes primarily in the conversion of technical drawings to editable vector images. With its vectorization settings, users can convert different types of drawings using pre-programmed variables. This means that you get a conversion that’s especially suited to your image type—whether you’re converting contour maps, mechanical drawings or images for CNC—in a matter of seconds. You could then quite easily use the output vector in SketchUp or a CAD program of your choosing. 

Using Scan2CAD’s raster and vector editing suite, you can avoid common image issues and optimize your image to give you the best possible output. We even have a variety of raster effects and a raster quality checklist that users can take advantage of to fix any problems. And that’s not all. Smart OCR enables users to train the software to recognize new fonts or handwriting. And if time isn’t on your side, you can make use of batch processing to automate the conversion of hundreds of files at once. 

Interested? Try out Scan2CAD in a free 14-day trial with absolutely no limitations. That means you don’t have to worry about watermarks or limited conversions. Click on the button below to get started today. 

Want to stay updated on all things CAD, CAM or CNC-related? Check out Scan2CAD’s blog covering topics ranging from CAD outsourcing to building the ultimate CAD PC to CAD in virtual reality. 

Scan2CAD has put together a guide to show you how to manually vectorize using Photoshop. We’ve also provided alternative options for vectorization and an overview of Scan2CAD’s capabilities, alongside a free download. 

Table of Contents

• What is Vectorization?
• Vectorize using Photoshop
  • Limitations and Alternative Methods
• Scan2CAD: the Ultimate Vectorization Software
  • Why choose Scan2CAD?

What is vectorization?

Vectorization is the process of converting a raster image to a vector image. You can do this through manual or automatic tracing.

• Manual tracing can be completed by drawing over an image with your mouse. Alternatively, you could make use of a tablet and graphics pen.

• Automatic tracing is enacted by conversion software. It detects the lines and shapes in your image and draws over them with vector entities.

Automatic tracing is a more popular method, due to its speed—it can take mere seconds to complete, compared to hours or days with manual tracing.

Why do we need to vectorize?

Raster images like JPEGs or BMPs, while common, come with a variety of issues. When you zoom into a raster or enlarge it, the individual pixels just get bigger. Raster images are resolution dependent, so they need to be at the right scale to appear correctly.

Vectors, by comparison are mathematically perfect. They’re made up of paths, so you can scale up a vector as much as you’d like—they’re infinitely scalable. Vectors never lose quality, which is why they’re so popular in the graphic design industry. For more information, check out raster versus vector.

Photoshop

Photoshop is a raster graphics editor developed by Adobe Systems. It was released in 1990 and has since become the industry standard in raster graphics editing, spanning across industries worldwide. Photoshop can be purchased for as little as $9.99/month. 

You cannot currently vectorize using Photoshop. You can use it to manually trace an image; however, you would then have to export the paths to Illustrator. Unless you’re desperate to test Photoshop’s capabilities, it’s not really worth the time or effort using it to convert your drawings. That being said, we’ll briefly show you how you could go about manually tracing an image in Photoshop.

• Open your image into Photoshop.  Click Window > Paths. You have three options: 
  • Pen Tool to create straight lines and Bezier curves. 
  • Freeform for a more organic trace. 
  • Magnetic Pen to follow color and brightness.

• Draw vector paths over your entire image. 

• Select further pathways with Lasso, Marquee and Magic Wand. Click Paths > Make Work Paths to turn each selection into a vector path.

• Set the tolerance for paths. A small level makes the path adhere to what you’ve traced and large displays smooth transitions. 

• When you create a new work path, double-click the path name in the Paths panel. 

• Export paths to Illustrator. Click File > Export > Paths to Illustrator. 

Limitations and alternatives

While Photoshop is a great raster graphics editor, it is extremely lacking when it comes to vectors. This is quite simply because that’s not what it was designed for. Whether you’re looking to convert simple raster logos or advanced technical drawings for CAD, Photoshop is not the answer. We’ve previously looked at how you can vectorize using: 

• Adobe Illustrator
• CorelDRAW
• Inkscape

You should avoid using online converters at all costs. They almost always come with limitations—a limited number of conversions, no large file sizes, no text conversion—so it’s really not worth it. They can also put your entire system at risk with possible trojans or viruses.

Scan2CAD: the ultimate vectorization software

If you’re looking for a program that converts drawings quickly and efficiently, then look no further than the ultimate vectorization software: Scan2CAD. It specializes primarily in the conversion of technical drawings to editable vector images. Unlike software like Inkscape or Illustrator, Scan2CAD was developed for the primary purpose of conversion. With a variety of vectorization settings, it can use pre-programmed variables to convert different types of drawings to the utmost quality. Plus, it takes mere seconds to complete.

Before you convert…

Locate image issues

Make sure that your image doesn’t suffer from common issues like dithered, merged or hairy lines. It needs to be of high quality for Scan2CAD to detect the lines and shapes present.

Don’t bother converting any raster image that sports any of these problems…

Fix the problems

We have a variety of raster effects and a raster quality checklist that you can take advantage of to fix any problems you have. You can also take the following steps…

• Change the image format to the lossless TIFF. 
• Reduce colors to provide a clearer contrast between the image and background. 
• Use Thresholding to divide into image into black and white pixels. 
• Cleaning tools such as Thicken Lines, Remove holes/speckles and Smooth. 

Convert

Once you’re happy, you can convert your image in a matter of seconds. You can save your new vector as a DWG, DXF or even as G-code if you want to use it with your CNC machine. 

Why choose Scan2CAD?

Scan2CAD doesn’t just convert images. It comes with a raster and vector editing suite so you can optimize your images. It also provides a batch processing feature so that you can automate the conversion of hundreds of drawings. Not to mention, its Smart OCR feature which you can train to recognize new fonts and handwritten text. 

Fancy testing it out? Try out Scan2CAD in a free 14-day trial with absolutely no limitations. You don’t have to worry about watermarks or limited conversions. Click on the button below to get started today.

Want to stay updated on all things CAD, CAM or CNC-related? Keep an eye on Scan2CAD’s blog covering topics ranging from how to convert paper drawings for CAD to CAD training courses to how CAD changed product design.

Scan2CAD’s latest guide will show you exactly how you can vectorize using Inkscape. We’ll also show you when you should use Inkscape, and when you should opt for a more specialized solution like Scan2CAD. Plus, we’ll show you how you can get Scan2CAD for free. 

Table of Contents

• What is Tracing?
  • Rasters and Vectors
  • Why is it Important?
• Inkscape
• Vectorize Using Inkscape
• When to Vectorize Using Inkscape
• Scan2CAD: What is it and How is it Different?
• How to Get the Best Results
• Beyond Vectorization
• Scan2CAD: Free Download

What is tracing?

If you’re new to the world of graphic design or CAD, you might not be familiar with tracing—otherwise known as vectorization. This process involves tracing over a raster image in order to create an editable vector image. This is how people are able to create the flawless images you might have seen on websites or advertisements. It’s possible to trace a raster and convert it to a vector in one of two ways—manual tracing or automatic tracing. 

Manual tracing used to be the only method you could use to create a vector from a raster image. Using specific software, you can trace over a raster image by using your mouse. If you have a tablet and graphics pen, you could draw over the image. Manual tracing is beneficial in offering precision. While a computer might struggle differentiating between lines on a drawing, you would have no such issues due to your knowledge of the drawing. Unfortunately, manual tracing can be a time-consuming process.

The evolution of technology brought about a new method of vectorization—automatic tracing. This process involves making use of conversion software, which converts your raster to a vector automatically. It does this by detecting the lines and shapes present in your image and creating a vector output. This method increases work efficiency—you could quite easily convert dozens of technical drawings or designs in the time it takes you to manually trace one image. There are, of course, setbacks to conversion software, as they require you to be working with high quality images.

If you have many deadlines or a heavy workload, you should definitely opt for automatic tracing. It’s easy enough to vectorize using Inkscape or Scan2CAD, for example—eradicating the need to outsource CAD conversion.

But what exactly do the terms raster and vector refer to?

Rasters and Vectors

Raster images are mostly used for photographs. Most of the images you see on your computer are stored in a raster format. Images in this format are made up of pixels—tiny blocks of color. You might have seen pixels in a raster image when you’ve tried to scale the image up or zoom into it. Raster images are resolution dependent, so they need to be at the right scale to appear correctly, otherwise they lose quality. These types of images can be compressed using lossy compression or lossless compression. Common raster formats include JPEG, BMP, PNG and TIFF. 

Vector images are mostly used in graphic design and engineering. They are made up of paths instead of pixels, which means that they are much easier to edit. When you make changes to a raster image, you make changes to the entire image. In contrast, you can make changes to individual elements of a vector image. Vectors rely on pure math, which is why you can increase the size of a vector without any loss of quality. Vectors are therefore infinitely scalable. It’s also possible to attach data to each element of a vector design, making them ideal for use in architecture and engineering. Common vector formats include DXF, DWG, PDF and AI.

Why is tracing important?

Tracing—or vectorization—is a fundamental part of dozens of industries, from graphic design to architecture.

If you’re looking to vectorize using Inkscape, you’re probably based in the graphic design industry. If that’s the case, you might be looking to create vector logos or images to feature on a website or an advertisement. You’ll want to avoid raster images because, more often than not, you’ll be able to see heavy pixelation. If you want a raster logo in different sizes, you’ll have to create separate ones—you won’t be able to re-size it due to resolution dependency. If you vectorize your logo, however, you can use the same logo for everything—from a billboard poster to a tiny business card.

Of course, it’s not all about graphic design. The ever-important CAD industry makes heavy use of vector graphics. Originally, CAD designers would hand-draw their designs and specifications. This made for a lengthy design and production process—any changes that needed to be made would result in entire designs being redrawn. This was thrown out of the window with the introduction and evolution of CAD software.

Screenshot of PTC Creo

CAD drafters now create and edit their drawings in CAD software, meaning everything can be edited and changed quickly and efficiently. Vector graphics are the industry-standard format for CAD software—you can edit each individual entity and reuse them when you create new drawings. If a CAD drafter has an old technical drawing in a paper format, they can scan them and then convert them to a vector format using tracing. This vector image can then be opened in CAD software where it can be turned into a 2D or 3D model.

Inkscape

Inkscape is a free and open-source vector graphics editor, similar to Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW. It can be used to create and edit vector graphics including illustrations, logos and line arts. Inkscape stands out in the market due to its use of SVG—an open XML-based W3C standard—as the native format. It’s used across a range of industries, from marketing and branding to engineering and design. It can take you through an entire design process with a professional-grade design format ready for publication on the internet or in a physical form.

Inkscape is cross-platform which means that it can be used on Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. One of its biggest advantages is that it is free to use and distribute—you can even look at the source code. You can easily vectorize using Inkscape with its Bitmap Trace tool, which we will discuss shortly. Using its automatic tracing tool you can quite easily turn your raster artwork into vectors. You might even use Inkscape in CAD and CNC applications. Of course, like other free software, Inkscape does come with some limitations, which we will discuss briefly later in this article.

Vectorize using Inkscape

Inkscape comes with a variety of drawing tools which you can make use of to manually trace your raster image. It can be a time-consuming process, however, which is why we’re concentrating on automatic tracing instead.

Inkscape comes with a simple trace feature—Trace Bitmap—which enables users to trace and convert raster images to vectors. The process also involves specific trace features which enable users to alter aspects of their raster and vector output—from the color to the background. By using these features, you can modify your vector until it’s completely to your liking.

You can start the process by loading your image into Inkscape. Head on over to File > Import and choose your raster image. Once you’ve selected your image, start the trace by clicking Path > Trace Bitmap. Inkscape then gives you two options for tracing—you can choose between single or multiple scans, each giving you different settings. Single scans should be selected if you want to create a single path from the image. Alternatively, multiple scans should be chosen if you want a group of paths.

Single scan

• Brightness cutoff: uses the shade of a pixel to figure out whether it should be black or white. The higher the threshold setting, the darker the image will become.

• Edge detection: creates a path based on the differences in brightness of pixels. The threshold settings then adjust the darkness of the output image. A higher threshold will produce a darker output.

• Color quantization: produces a path based on the differences in color. The ‘number of colors’ setting allows you to specify how many colors you want in your output. An algorithm is then used to turn these theoretical colors black or white.

Multiple scan

• Number of scans: the number of paths. If you’re using multiple colors, you’ll need to increase the number of scans.

• Brightness steps: allows you to specify the total number of scans.

• Colors: makes use of the number in the scans box to then determine how many colors it should output.

• Grays: the same as the color setting, except that it creates a grayscale version.

• Smooth: applies a Gaussian blur before the trace option. This eradicates any rough patches on your paths.

• Stack scans: gets rid of holes in path coverage.

• Remove background: gets rid of the background, giving you a vector on a transparent background.

Additional options include: suppress speckles, smooth corners and optimize paths. 

After you’re happy, click Update to see a preview of the trace. If your lines are too thick or too thin, you will have selected an unsuitable trace mode. Inkscape recommends testing out the different settings for the tracing tool in order to determine which one suits you best. You can then click OK to create the paths. If you need to make any changes, you can click ‘Edit paths by node’ to adjust the nodes and curves.

When to vectorize using Inkscape

Inkscape comes with a variety of advantages. It’s free to use which is a great bonus when you compare it to software like CorelDraw which costs $499. In addition, it’s open-source which means you can make your own improvements and changes to the software. If you’re looking to convert simple artwork to a vector graphics format, then Inkscape is perfect. However, if you’re looking to convert more complex images with a higher number of colors, then Inkscape is the wrong fit.

You might also find Inkscape to be unsuitable if you’re looking to convert technical drawings for use in CAD software. All technical drawings are different in some way. For example, electrical plans consist of precise straight lines while contour maps contain more curves and polylines. Unfortunately, Inkscape only provides a generalized trace. This means that you’ll get a generalized trace that takes the same variables into consideration no matter which type of technical drawing you’re converting. When it comes to these types of drawings, it is vital that you get a specialized trace that caters to each type of drawing you’re converting. This is where Scan2CAD comes in. 

Scan2CAD: what is it and how is it different?

Scan2CAD is a conversion software that specializes primarily in the conversion of technical drawings to editable vector images. It supports a vast array of different design types, ranging from engineering drawings to site plans to contour maps. It can also be used in a variety of industries, from glass reproduction to metal sculpting to routed signs. You can quite easily scan a technical drawing and convert it to a vector, ready for use in CAD software. Of course, it’s not just limited to technical drawings—you can also convert raster images like logos or artwork.

So what makes Scan2CAD different from other conversion software or Inkscape? It’s simple, really. Scan2CAD was developed for the primary purpose of conversion. It gives users a specialized trace—when you use Scan2CAD to trace a technical drawing, you’re given a variety of vectorization settings. These settings come with pre-programmed variables that enact exactly how your conversion is carried out. If you’re converting a contour map, for example, Scan2CAD will convert the shapes into Bezier curves or splines. In short, Scan2CAD offers you a specialized solution that caters to all of your vectorization needs. 

Plus, the process takes only seconds to complete!

How to get the best results

Step 1: Locate the problems

Before you begin the vectorization process, you first have to make sure that your input image is of the best quality. After all, if you’re using a tiny raster image that’s already pixelated, you’re not going to get a great output. This is even more important when it comes to technical drawings. If you’ve scanned a drawing, the image has to be of a high quality. Otherwise, Scan2CAD (or any other conversion software) won’t be able to identify the lines and text in the image.

There are a variety of common problems that plague raster images, making it difficult to produce an optimal vector output. If your image contains heavy pixelation, or is blurred in some way, then you won’t get a great output. This also follows for dithered, merged or hairy lines—in which case the software won’t be able to differentiate between text and shapes. Additional image issues are highlighted below.

Don’t bother converting any raster image that contains any of these problems…

Step 2: Fix the problems

Scan2CAD comes with a wide variety of pre- and post-processing editing features which allow you to produce the most optimal result possible. We’ve highlighted a few of the main features, but for more information you can check our raster quality checklist or our top 10 raster effects.

• Pick the right format. Formats like JPEG are compressed using lossy compression, so each time you edit them they lose quality. Scan2CAD recommends the use of the TIFF format which uses lossless compression. If you want a great output, you have to start with the right file format.

• Reduce colors. Vectorization is an easier process for images that have a less amount of colors. This gives a clear contrast between the image and the background, allowing the software to pick up on the shapes and text easily.

• Thresholding. To avoid issues like grayscale, you can use thresholding to divide your image into black and white pixels. This is especially vital in scanned images. Scan2CAD offers two different types of thresholding:
  • Simple thresholding, which applies the same settings to the whole image.
  • Adaptive thresholding, which applies different settings to different parts of the image.

• Cleaning tools. Once you’ve got everything else sorted, you can make use of Scan2CAD’s wide range of cleaning tools.
  • Thicken lines to fix dithered or broken lines.
  • Remove holes or speckles to tidy up the image.
  • Smooth to remove hairy edges surrounding your image.

Step 3: Vectorization

Once you’re happy with your image, you can move on to the easiest part of the entire process—vectorization. Scan2CAD can convert your drawing in a matter of seconds, so you don’t have to worry about time-consuming conversions anymore. Once you’ve finished the process, you can save your vector as a DWG, DXF or even as G-code if you want to send it straight to your CNC machine. It really couldn’t be easier with Scan2CAD. 

Beyond vectorization

Scan2CAD isn’t just used for converting technical drawings for use in CAD software: it can also be used for CNC and CAM purposes.

CNC machines work by executing pre-programmed commands, the most common language of which is G-code. To start the CNC process, you need your raster image in a vector format. Once you’ve completed the vectorization process in Scan2CAD, you can then convert your vector to G-code which will be read and turned into motion by control software. This CNC control software will then run your machine.

Using Scan2CAD, you could create any type of CNC project, from laptop decals to laser cut jewelry to wooden plaques—the world is your oyster. If you’re interested, check out how to vectorize a logo for CNC to see it in action. Or, if you’re looking for an in-depth look at how CNC works, take a look at how to convert an image for CNC.

Not interested in converting technical drawings or creating your own vectors? Sometimes we just want to get stuck into a project rather than getting weighed down by the tiny details. Scan2CAD isn’t just a conversion software, it’s also a source for all things CAD, CNC and CAM-related. So if you want to get started with your own projects, why not make use of Scan2CAD’s cut-ready CNC designs that are free and ready to use? These packs include 6 or 7 designs in a DXF and JPG format.

Worried they’re not suitable? That’s okay—each week brings in a new theme, ensuring that you’ll be rewarded with exciting and innovative designs every single week.

Scan2CAD: free download

If you’re converting raster images for a website, advertisement or just general graphic design purposes, then you can’t really go wrong with Inkscape. After all, it is free to use. However, if you’re looking for a software that offers you a specialized solution for all of your conversion needs, then look no further than market leader Scan2CAD. 

Scan2CAD doesn’t just stop at converting images. It also comes with a raster and vector editing suite so you can optimize your image before and after conversion. With its batch processing feature, you can automate the conversion of hundreds of files at once. If you’re converting drawings that contain a lot of text, you’ll also be pleased to hear about Scan2CAD’s Smart OCR feature, which allows users to convert text and even train the software to recognize new fonts and handwritten text. 

Now that you know how much Scan2CAD has to offer, you might be wondering how to get your hands on it. Before you become tempted enough to try to download a Scan2CAD crack, how about you try it for free without compromising the security of your files and system?

Scan2CAD is available in a free 14-day trial with absolutely no limitations. You don’t have to worry about watermarks or limited conversions—you get to enjoy the software to its fullest. Click on the button below to get started today. 

Want to stay updated on all things CAD, CAM and CNC-related? Keep an eye on Scan2CAD’s news section that covers topics ranging from Autodesk University London to CAD outsourcing to the pitfalls of designing for CNC. 

Interested? Scan2CAD’s guide will show you exactly how CorelDRAW can be used for vectorization. Plus, we’ll show you when you should vectorize using CorelDRAW, and when you should make use of other resources like Scan2CAD. 

What is tracing?

To convert a raster to a vector, you have to vectorize the raster image—or, in other words, trace it. The process of image tracing or vectorization involves drawing over a raster image with new vector lines, shapes and text. You can either use manual or automatic tracing to convert your image to a vector.

Manual tracing—as the name suggests—involves tracing over the raster by hand. If you’re using a laptop or computer, you can trace over the image with your mouse. If you’re using a tablet, you can make use of a graphics pen to draw over the image.

Automatic tracing, by comparison, makes use of raster-to-vector conversion software. This software detects the lines and edges of your raster image and redraws them as vector lines, polygons, curves and other entities. In this particular guide, we’ll be showing you how you can use CorelDRAW to convert your raster to a vector—this is an example of automatic tracing. We’ll also be showing you how you can use Scan2CAD for the conversion of technical drawings for a specialized solution. 

Of course, some people work with both processes. If you’ve found an old technical drawing, like an electrical plan, you might find that the lines are all faded. You could quite easily trace over the outline by hand and scan this new drawing. You can then vectorize using CorelDRAW or Scan2CAD to produce a vector.

If you’re not entirely sure which method is suitable for you, check out tracing: manual or automatic?

Why convert a raster to a vector?

For general purposes

Raster images are typically used for photographs. You undoubtedly use them on a regular basis—the images on your computer are likely to be a raster format. 

Rasters are made up of millions of pixels, which are essentially tiny blocks of colors. You’ll be able to see pixels when you change the size of a raster. Making a raster image bigger makes the pixels more evident—the more you zoom in, the more pronounced the squares become. As a result, the image loses quality as it becomes more blurry and undefined. Raster images, therefore, are resolution dependent.

The most common raster formats include JPEG, GIF, BMP and PNG. If you’re looking to share images easily with a small file size then you’ll use JPEG. If you want to exchange animations then you would choose a GIF. Alternatively, if you’re looking to vectorize your raster, you’re best off picking a PNG or TIFF. 

Vectors are mathematically perfect formats. They’re used in graphic design and engineering because they’re easy to edit and they don’t suffer from loss in quality. 

Unlike rasters with pixels, vectors are made up of paths. These paths, or mathematical coordinates, ensure that no matter how much you scale a vector up or down, it retains its quality. If you enlarge the size of a vector then the paths are also enlarged. Essentially, the lines multiply in size. Vector images are therefore infinitely scalable. This means that you could use the same vector as a tiny logo on a business card, or enlarged as a billboard poster. 

The most common vector formats include AI, DXF, DWG and SVG. DWG is the native file format for the popular AutoCAD. Alternatively, DXF is the gold-standard exchange format in most CAD software. 

For more information, check out raster versus vector. 

For graphic design

If you’re working in graphic design or with illustrations, you’ll have undoubtedly used vector images before. If you’re using a logo or a graphic on a website, you need to ensure that the image will be of a high quality no matter what. When you’re advertising with posters and leaflets, you also want to make sure that the image isn’t pixelated. Vector graphics are also an industry-standard file format. 

One of the great advantages to vector graphics is that you can make changes to them at any time. You might decide that you only need a web logo, in which case a raster image would be suitable. If you create a vector logo, however, you can use that same vector in a banner or merchandise at a later date. This saves you the trouble of having to create a brand new raster logo—your designs are no longer limited to a single usage. 

For CAD

Drafting in CAD software like Rhinoceros 3D makes the design and production process smooth and simple

Before the introduction of CAD, drafters had to draw all of their designs and specifications by hand. As you can imagine, this would make design and production a lengthy process. If an engineer decided that there needed to be changes made to a design, the drafter would have to redo the entire thing. 

With the introduction and evolution of CAD, designers and engineers were given access to programs that brought about an entirely new way of doing things. These CAD programs merged the roles of drafters, engineers and designers—nowadays, there’s still a lot of overlap as you can see in AutoCAD careers.

Vector graphics are an industry-standard format in CAD. The use of vector designs means that you can easily edit a CAD drawing, such as an architectural plan, without having to redraw it. You can edit each individual entity, and even reuse them in an entirely new drawing. If you have an old paper drawing or technical drawing, vectorization is the answer. You can scan your drawing and then convert the resulting raster image to a vector. This vector can then be opened in CAD software where you can edit it and create your own 2D or 3D model. 

Why should you automatically trace an image?

Automatic tracing has many benefits that tend to overshadow manual tracing. The process is much faster than manual tracing. With some converters or programs, it can take minutes or even seconds. Manual tracing, by comparison, can take you hours or even days. 

If you’re at the mercy of looming deadlines and a growing workload, the idea of converting dozens of raster logos or old drawings can be overwhelming. This can lead to many people and businesses to outsource CAD conversion. Automatic tracing can be the best solution to this problem. It’s easy enough to vectorize using CorelDRAW, for example.

Of course, you have to make sure that you’re using an automatic tracer like CorelDRAW for the right reasons. If you’re looking to convert complex photographs with hundreds of colors, then you probably won’t get the output you want—as we’ve shown in what is (and isn’t possible) with converting photos. The best candidates for vectorization are images that have simple lines and few colors. Images that best fit this description include logos, cartoons and technical drawings like site plans and architectural plans. 

CorelDRAW

CorelDRAW is a vector graphics editor developed by Corel Corporation. It was released in 1989 as the first graphics software for the Windows platform. It’s used worldwide by designers to create logos, signs and to vectorize images. It can even be used to create new fonts. CorelDRAW covers a range of areas including vector illustration page layout, digital editing, web graphics and animation. It’s often seen as a viable alternative to Adobe’s Illustrator, offering its services as a one-time purchase of $499 or a $25/month subscription. 

It’s possible to vectorize with CorelDRAW by making use of its PowerTRACE tool, which we will discuss in depth at a later section. This is very useful in the design industry, enabling users to turn raster artwork into vectors. The software can also be used in CAD and CNC applications—it works well with CorelCAD. It can, of course, be overwhelming to use CorelDRAW at first. With its vast range of tools, it comes with a steep learning curve.

Did you know that Corel also has its own CAD software package?

CorelCAD

CorelCAD is a Computer Aided Design software package. It comes with 2D drafting tools and 3D modeling tools. Not only is it compatible with all major CAD programs, it also uses DWG as its primary drawing format. CorelCAD can be used with CorelDRAW for a complete technical graphics workflow. For example, users can import graphics from CorelDRAW and convert them into 3D models in CorelCAD. 

The software package is available for both Windows and Mac, and supports DXF, DWF, PDF and STL for 3D printing. It costs $699 with an additional $199 for updates. It’s much cheaper than most CAD software packages which is a huge benefit.

If you’re a student, did you know that you could get most popular CAD packages for free or at a discount? Find out more in our students’ guide to free CAD and resources. Alternatively, you can check out Scan2CAD’s list of 14 top free CAD packages. 

Vectorize using CorelDRAW

It is possible to manually trace your raster image and vectorize using CorelDRAW, but, as we have discussed, it’s much easier and faster to use automatic tracing instead. 

CorelDRAW comes with its own tracing feature called PowerTRACE. This feature allows you to convert raster images to vectors by using specific settings and additional options to create the perfect vector output. To start, you need to have an image in a BMP or TIFF format for optimal results, as they offer lossless compression. 

These are the 4 steps to vectorize using CorelDraw:

1. Import the image
2. Launch ‘Trace Bitmap’
3. Define the image tracing settings
4. Preview and export to vector format

Below we delve into detailed descriptions of each step.

1. Import the Image

As with most programs, you start by importing your image into CorelDRAW by going to File > New, then File > Import.

From this import dialog you can select your desired raster image and open directly into CorelDraw.

2. Launch Trace Bitmap

Trace bitmap menu option in CorelDraw (Source)

Once you have imported the image, click the following menu options: Bitmaps > Outline Trace > and select the appropriate next option described next. 

For more control over the trace, after selecting the Outline Trace, you will see options for specific image types. These image types include Technical Illustration, Line Drawing, Lineart, Logo, Detailed Logo, Clipart or Low/High Quality Image. 

Once you’ve chosen the right image type, a dialog box will pop up. This box is split into two areas; the left displays a preview of your trace and the right features additional options. 

3. Define the Image Tracing Settings

Image source: learn.corel.com

Don’t be overwhelmed by the number of image tracking settings in this dialog. Here’s an overview of each of the settings:

• Preview selector: you can view the results of your trace in one of three ways. You can view it in the standard Before & After pane view, a full Large Preview pane view, or a full pane-view with a Wireframe Overlay. This overlay enables you to see the vector shapes as red outlines over your original image. 

• Smoothing slider: this enables you to control the complexity of traced areas. It also affects the number of nodes per object. 

• Detail slider: determines the size and color threshold of the traced areas in your image. The higher the detail, the lower the threshold which causes smaller areas of color to be traced. As a result, you have a greater number of objects and colors in the finished product. 

• Delete original image: this leaves you with the new vector image. 

• Remove background: you can use a manual or automatic option to apply a soft mask during your trace.

• Automatically choose color: the software automatically detects the background color using the color at the top-left or bottom-right corner. 

• Specify color: enables you to choose your own color from the color selector. 

• Remove color from entire image: this can eliminate a color throughout your entire image. 

• Number of colors/color mode: controls the total number of color samples in your trace results. 

4. Preview and Export to Vector Format

Viewing raster and vector image in CorelDraw (source)

You can check the Preview button at any time to see the results of your trace. Once you’re happy with the result, enable the trace to convert your image to a vector. If you need to make any changes, you can use CorelDRAW’s drawing tools. You can then save your vector image once complete: 

• AI: native file format of Adobe Illustrator. 
• CDR: native file format of CorelDRAW. 
• DXF: a data exchange format used in CAD. 
• DWG: AutoCAD’s native file format. 
• PDF: used for sharing and printing documents. 
• SVG: used mostly for web graphics. 

And there you have it—you now know how to vectorize using CorelDRAW. This doesn’t mean that you can use CorelDRAW for any type of vectorization, however. CorelDRAW is used mostly in the graphic design industry, so if you’re looking for a specialized vectorization for CAD or CNC you’ll have to look elsewhere. Read the next section to find out when you should and shouldn’t use CorelDRAW. 

Manual Tracing using CorelDRAW

Manual tracing in corelDRAW can be a laborious process. Tracing, when done manually, is the process of drawing over every shape of your raster image using your vector drawing tools. Unlike automatic vectorization, there’s no shortcuts for this process and in most cases users will opt for automatic vectorization rather than manual tracing. 

A user could choose to manually trace an image if they are not obtaining the results they desire from automatic tracing.

In the below video demonstration you can learn how to utilize the vector drawing tools to manually trace over a raster image, such as a logo.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PuDnKljtLu8

When you should (and shouldn’t) use CorelDRAW

CorelDRAW is geared towards the design industry, more specifically the graphic design industry. As such, most of its focus is on helping you vectorize and produce images to be used in websites, posters or advertisements. When you vectorize using CorelDRAW, you can be sure that you’re getting vectors with a high level of colors and realism. You could quite easily convert your own raster logo and use it in CAD or CNC software. 

Unfortunately, if you’re looking to vectorize scanned drawings or technical drawings, you won’t be getting a specialized solution. In fact, you’ll get the same type of trace no matter if you’re converting contour maps or electrical plans. Scanned drawings also tend to need refining beforehand, especially if they contain text. 

Furthermore, not only is there a steep learning curve with CorelDRAW, it’s also rather expensive at $499. If you’re a casual user looking only to convert old technical drawings for example, do you really want to fork out that much when it doesn’t offer you a specialized solution? Surely it would be easier and more cost-effective to invest in a software package that gives you exactly what you need? 

And in comes Scan2CAD…

Scan2CAD is a market-leading raster-to-vector converter, focusing primarily on the conversion of technical drawings like architectural plans. It can be used in any industry—from architecture to mechanical engineering—and by anyone of any experience. It comes with a full raster and vector editing suite so that you can optimize your image before and after conversion. 

Unlike CorelDRAW, Scan2CAD offers you a complete specialized solution. With its vectorization settings, Scan2CAD offers a specialized trace for all technical drawings and raster images. These settings enable the software to look at different variables depending on the type of drawing you’re converting. Its picture/photo setting for example, enables you to choose which elements are identified, such as circles, bezier curves and regular polygons. 

By using Scan2CAD, you don’t have to worry about text issues. Unlike other converters that struggle with vectorizing raster text into editable and logical strings, Scan2CAD comes with Smart OCR. You could even train the software to recognize new or handwritten fonts. And with features like batch processing, you can automate the conversion of hundreds of files at once. 

How does the process work?

Scan2CAD’s conversion process works by detecting the lines and edges in your raster image—redrawing them as vector entities. The conversion takes into account parameters including the type of line, line weights and even the angle of the curves. 

Scan2CAD makes use of pre-programmed variables that control exactly how your conversion process is carried out. This means that you get a precise conversion that differs depending on what type of image you’re converting. And the best part? Scan2CAD’s vectorization process takes only a matter of seconds. If you don’t believe us, check out the animation below. 

Converting an image to DXF or G-code in Scan2CAD

Why you should avoid online converters

You might decide that you don’t want to buy CorelDRAW, which leaves you at a bit of an impasse in regards to CAD conversion. So what do you do? What you shouldn’t do is look online for the easiest-to-find converter. Take our word for it, you won’t get a good vector output. 

Online converters are free for a reason. And that’s because they come with a vast range of limitations. Firstly, you’ll be limited as to how many files you can convert. Secondly, you won’t be able to convert images with a large file size—so don’t even bother trying. And if your image has text in it, then good luck, because it probably won’t be converted into editable vector text. 

The text on the left was converted using Scan2CAD. The text on the right was converted using a different CAD program, and hasn’t been correctly reassembled into strings.

And that’s not even the half of it. If you use an online converter, you run the risk of opening your computer up to a variety of risks including trojans and viruses. Furthermore, you might end up having your online files stolen—the last thing you need is someone taking credit for your work. We’ve discussed this further in the 5 pitfalls of online file converters. 

In short, it’s just not worth investing your time in online file converters. You just end up spending extra time fixing the finished product. What you really want is software that keeps your files and your system safe and secure. If you’re converting technical drawings in particular, you might find that CorelDRAW isn’t giving you the output you want. Instead, you might want to consider using specialized software like Scan2CAD. 

Tips for Scan2CAD conversion

Common problems with conversion

The process of conversion is completely dependent upon your input file. If your scanned drawing or raster file is full of shadows or incomplete, you won’t get a great output. Site plans, for example, are completely useless if you can’t actually see the lines and annotations clearly. You’ll know your image is unsuitable if it contains any of the following image problems: 

• Heavy pixelation. This makes your image blurry and unfocused. 
• Dithered lines. This is common with scanned pencil drawings. 
• Merged lines. Sometimes software won’t be able to differentiate between text and shapes. 
• Hairy lines. This means that the lines have fuzzy edges. 
• Low resolution. If you want a good output, lines should be around 5 pixels thick. 
• Broken lines. If lines are too thin, the software won’t detect them which may result in incomplete lines. 
• Shadows. This is primarily an issue with scanned drawings. 

Don’t bother converting any raster image that sports any of these problems…

How to get the best results

• Choose the right image and format. If you’re working with scanned images, you need to make sure that you drawing is as clean as possible. In addition, you should save the image in a TIFF format because it comes with lossless compression. You need to start with the right kind of input to get an optimal output. 

• Reduce the number of colors. The best images to convert are ones that have the least amount of colors. This will give you a clear contrast between the background of the drawing and the foreground. Scan2CAD will then be able to detect every shade and shape and produce separate vector entities as a result. 

• Thresholding. Scanned images in particular tend to suffer from grayscale and compression artifacts. The thresholding tool enables you to divide your drawing cleanly into black and white pixels. There are two types of thresholding: 
  • Simple thresholding: applies it to the whole image. 
  • Adaptive thresholding: applies it to different parts of your raster image. 

• Clean up the image. Scan2CAD comes with a range of cleaning tools that can be used to combat the issues highlighted in the previous section. 
  • Thicken lines to fix broken or dithered lines. 
  • Remove holes or speckles. 
  • Smooth which removes hairy edges. 

Here’s a floorplan — before and after conversion! We’ve used Scan2CAD to convert it from a scanned image (left) to an editable vector (right); and saved it as DXF

For more tips, check out Scan2CAD’s raster quality checklist or our top 10 raster effects to see how you can optimize your image before and after conversion. 

All sorted?

Once you’re happy with your image, you can move on to the easiest part of the entire process. Scan2CAD can convert your technical drawings and raster images in a matter of seconds—boasting one of the fastest conversion process times out there. Once this fast vectorization process is complete, you can save your new vector as a DXF, DWG or even a PDF. It truly couldn’t be simpler. 

Scan2CAD: free download

If you already have CorelDRAW then you should definitely test out the PowerTRACE tool—it might give you the output you want. However, if you’re still uncertain as to whether you should fork out for CorelDRAW, then why not try out Scan2CAD for free first? If you’re looking to convert technical drawings or even something like raster logos for CNC, you can’t get better than Scan2CAD. 

The one setback to programs like CorelDRAW is that their vectorization tools don’t offer a specialized solution. Scan2CAD, in comparison, can be used for all of your vectorization needs. It doesn’t matter if you’re converting a site plan or an electrical plan, Scan2CAD can convert them using different specialized solutions suited to the image. And it’s not just useful for CAD: Scan2CAD can also help you bring your designs to CNC. This means you can take your drawings and create your own CNC projects. 

Rather than vectorize using CorelDRAW, download Scan2CAD in a free 14-day trial and find out exactly why it’s the ultimate vectorization software. You don’t have to worry about any limitations—you can convert as many files as you want without so much as a watermark. Just click on the button below to get started. 

Want to stay updated on all things CAD and CNC-related? Check out Scan2CAD’s blog covering everything ranging from CAD training courses to how CAD changed product design. 

But what, precisely, is the format that you’re getting out at the end of the process? We’ll explore why vector files are compatible with CAD software, what format options are available, and the significant advantages to using them in both design and manufacturing. First, though, we’re turning back the clock for a brief look at their history.

1. Vector files pre-date AutoCAD

You could create a vector file using a stylus with the Sketchpad software

With its long history, you may assume that AutoCAD was the first program to implement the use of vector files. However, it was a couple of decades previous that Sketchpad, a drawing program thought up by Ivan Sutherland, enabled users to join points with lines—essentially the same technique that is used for drafting vectors today.

Since then, there has been some debate over terminology. Images within vector files are commonly referred to as vector graphics. However, it has been suggested that this term could cause confusion; some authors prefer to call them object-oriented graphics instead. But again, this has drawn criticism. It could be claimed that the term is misleading, as there exists a type of programming called ‘object-oriented programming’—and the two are not necessarily compatible.

In the end, it doesn’t really matter too much which you use; it is, however, important to be aware of both.

2. Different types of vector file are available

Common to CAD design are the file types DXF and DWG.

Drawing eXchange Format (DXF) files are native to AutoCAD, but were designed with the intention of being shared. As such, they are supported by practically every CAD program on the market—which makes them particularly useful for multi-disciplinary collaboration. The files are also simple enough to be used in CNC fabrication. However, this also means that they are not always suitable for some of the more complex entities that designers may wish to use.

Drawing (DWG) files, on the other hand, are not open-source. For use in AutoCAD they are ideal: capable of supporting 3D graphics—unlike DXF files—they also tend to be smaller in size. But when it comes to sharing a DWG, you may encounter difficulties. Some CAD programs are unable to read the file, and it is not supported by browsers.

These are the two formats we focus on here at Scan2CAD. However, they are not the only vector formats out there.

Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) files, for instance, are some of the most well-known types of vector file formats. Most prominent amongst their features is their small file size, ensuring them highly appropriate for use on the web. 

We cover more vector file types in a previous blog post; read it to find out more and get guidance on choosing the most suitable one for you.

3. PDF files can be a hybrid of raster and vector

We missed out PDF files from the previous section deliberately—and this is because, whilst they can be classed as a vector file, they may actually be a sort of hybrid, containing some raster entities too. These are images which are not compatible with CAD programs, and which are formed using pixels. Unlike any vector elements of the file, raster entities will not be scalable, and will need to undergo a conversion such as converting PDF to DXF before you can edit them properly. Luckily, the Scan2CAD software is able to convert raster entities to vectors in just a few clicks.

For design purposes, though, you will probably want to change the whole file into a format that is more compatible with CAD programs anyway. This is an extremely quick task—where you can upload your PDF, define the settings as per your requirements, and convert it to a DXF file. And by doing so, there is the option to keep or convert any raster entities, along with the vector ones.

4. Vector files are scalable

Raster files are resolution dependent, but however far you zoom into a vector image, it will always retain its quality

The beauty of vector files is that they are made up of lines, plotted from coordinate point to coordinate point. It is an entirely mathematical approach to drawing—but for those who dislike numeracy as a subject, this shouldn’t put you off. Rather, the format ensures that images can stay crisp and clear at any size at all: they are scalable.

This differs to the pixel-based approach employed by raster files. If you attempt to expand a raster image, it will gradually reduce in quality. This is because there are a fixed number of pixels contained within the file; the optimal size is where all outlines appear in focus. While they offer effects such as color gradation, they are unsuitable for many purposes where accuracy or scale are key.

Vector files, on the other hand, are ideal for use in design. The commonly spouted example tells of a graphic designer, who needs his client’s logo to work on tiny business cards, giant billboards—and anything in between. A raster image would prove unsuitable for such diverse requirements, but vectors rise (literally, and quite spectacularly) to the challenge.

5. Not all raster images can be turned into vector files

When attempting to convert raster files, such as TIFFs, JPEGs or PNGs, into a vector format, you need to be realistic. Not all rasters are suitable for conversion—and for those that are, some pre-vectorization clean-up may be necessary.

The conversion software is very clever, but it isn’t human. Should your image contain text, remember that the OCR technology cannot understand full words as you and I can; if you find it difficult to read, there is no way that the software will be able to.

You also need to ensure that your input image is clear enough to allow vector entities to be traced from it. Raster file types that use lossy compression, such as the JPEG format, are particularly susceptible to problems relating to low quality files. Small file sizes are wonderful for keeping used storage to a minimum, but if there are blurred lines as a result, you are unlikely to get a good vector image at the end.

Fortunately, if you’re set on getting a vector file out of your imperfect raster, there are some things you can do to combat potential issues. You may be able to improve the resolution of the image, and reduce the colors it contains. There are also options to negate the image, deskew it, or remove any holes that may disrupt lines. You can see all of our top raster effects in more detail here.

And of course, if you are able to vectorize your file, there are more benefits in store for you.

6. Vector files are easy to edit in CAD

One of the key reasons why designers and manufacturers predominantly use vector files, rather than raster, is because they contain all the information that is necessary to be used in CAD programs.

It doesn’t matter whether you’ve started out with a vector file, or vectorized a raster: you can edit it either way. You can, of course, manipulate the images in your preferred CAD software program, be that AutoCAD, SolidWorks or DraftSight. However, you need not even leave the confines of Scan2CAD for many of the edits you may wish to make.

The full editing suite includes tools that allow you to erase different entities, draw alternative or additional elements, or move them around on your screen. You can even change a line to a curve, and vice versa. Text is easily editable, too—by selecting the words you wish to change, you can type over them, hit ‘Enter’, sit back and admire your handiwork.

If you have previously converted from raster to vector, your new file will be overlayed over the original. The best way to edit it is simply by removing the raster image from sight, using the keyboard shortcut command ‘V’. This will allow you to see just the vectorized image, and thus enable you to work on it unhindered.  

7. They’re ideal for manufacturing, as well as design work

Manufacturing techniques that make use of CNC routers, milling machines and laser cutters, rely on the information contained within vector files. Such instructions are simply not held within raster files, and it is therefore not possible to fabricate a product from one. However, just as you can vectorize a raster file for design purposes, you can also convert an image for CNC.

The crucial thing to remember is that CNC machines need highly accurate designs to work from. With this in mind, when designing vectors for CNC, simple is usually best. Precision is key, and while it may take a bit of time to optimize your image, you can be sure that every second will be worth it. Manufacturing is expensive business, so preventable mistakes are not only irritating, but costly too. Check out the most frequent pitfalls of designing for CNC—and find out how you can avoid them.

As previously mentioned, DXF files, in particular, are ideal for use with CNC machines. Since it’s such a popular format, you’ll find many sites offering free, cut-ready, downloadable DXF files. They allow even the least experienced manufacturer to have a go—providing you’re willing and able to pay for the materials and machine involved in the process.  

For more information on the process of converting your raster files into vector, check out our post on vectorization.

1. It’s necessary for collaboration

If you’re used to dealing with CAD programs like AutoCAD or SolidWorks, you might not immediately see the need for converting PDF files into a compatible format. However, clients are likely to have limited expertise in this area, and may well send files as PDFs. Often their reasoning is sound: PDF is a widely supported file type, so they can be sure anyone receiving the file will have the capacity to access it. They might have no concept of the fact that you can’t just open it and get on with edits and additions. Alternatively, they may be well aware of potential issues, but unable to do anything about them, not having access to CAD software themselves.

You might also start out with a PDF if the drawing has originated from a hard copy. Perhaps it is an old architectural plan of a building, or maybe there’s a hand-drawn sketch you wish to work on. Whatever the reason, you need it on your screen. And when scanning it into the computer, you will be able to save the file as a PDF, but not as a format that is more CAD-friendly.

The difficulties that arise when attempting to edit PDF files makes it often imperative to convert it into a format such as DXF. DXF files are useful because not only are they compatible across CAD software, they can take you from design to manufacturing very easily. As vector files, they contain information that is able to be read by CNC machines, ensuring accurate production of your initial design.

2. Not every part of a PDF file will necessarily need converting from raster to vector

PDFs can contain elements of both raster and vector graphics; the latter referring to parts of the file that are compatible with CAD work. These entities are made up of lines, as opposed to the pixels that form a raster image. Such elements will not undergo further vectorization, but can be imported into your new file all the same.

It is possible to determine which entities of your PDF are raster, and which vector, but to save time and confusion, the software is able to identify them for you. You may decide to load just one of these types, but equally you can load all entities within the file.

You will also be given the option of converting any of the raster graphics into vector. Restrict the vectorization to raster text, lines or shapes—or, to enable them to be used more effectively for CAD or CNC, choose to convert them all. And forget time consuming manual tracing; instead of mouse or graphic pad, Scan2CAD will trace these entities entirely automatically.

Once vectorized, the editing suite allows you to alter any part of the image easily for your desired outcome.

3. It’s very quick and very easy

When converting a PDF into a DXF format, there’s a lot that needs to happen—but, thankfully, not by you.

Simply load your file, and decide which parts of it you wish to convert: you may wish to use only certain pages of your original PDF file, for instance. You’ll also be able to choose different vectorization, Optical Character Recognition (OCR), and export settings. To make things even simpler, the software will pick up on individual aspects of your file(s) and display options that are specifically relevant to them.

Then you’re ready to save into DXF format. The whole conversion take just a few clicks of your mouse, and is completed within about half a minute! Suddenly those PDFs you’re sent from clients don’t seem so much of a bother, do they?

For more detailed instructions of the process, see our step-by-step guide to converting your PDF file to a DXF.

4. There are ways you can improve the outcome of your PDF to DXF conversion

During the PDF to DXF process, there are several things that could go wrong. However, with a few pointers, you can reduce susceptibility to all of the most common DXF conversion problems.

Right from the get-go, you will face decisions that will affect the quality of the output. First off, you need to make sure that your input image—the PDF—is scanned into the software in as optimal a manner as possible. Scanning in black and white, where color is not a requirement to your image, proves a big help to the software. It can convert monochrome shapes much more accurately than those that are colored, or even grayscale, which can still include nearly 300 different shades in between black and white.

Ensuring your scan is correctly aligned is another easy way to improve your chances of a successful scan. Although you can use the deskewing tool a little later, such technology can reduce quality—and why bother, when you can manually eliminate the need up-front? No need to worry about it being positioned the wrong way round, though; you can rotate your PDF easily on Scan2CAD.

While there is a whole checklist of things you can do to improve the scanning process, you’ll likely need to work on the image on-screen too. This includes checking that that the lines are thick enough to be recognized (although not thick enough to run the risk of producing multiple lines) and adjusting the color settings of your image.

After the conversion itself, there is a little more to do: the process does not end with a click of the button. Post-vectorization editing is a crucial step that can make all the difference to the quality of your DXF file output.

5. Scan2CAD will recognize text and numbers, although you can give it a helping hand

Optical Character Recognition is a useful piece of kit that can trace over letters and numbers and convert them into editable text. The technology comes in particularly handy when vectorizing old plans, which often contain handwritten labels and notes.

Applying certain settings can be beneficial to the process. You can, for example, choose to split characters that may have bled into each other in their native, raster state. There’s also complete flexibility in how OCR is used: the settings you opt for needn’t apply across your whole document if you don’t deem them suitable.

You can also lend the OCR technology a bit of a helping hand. With handwritten or unclear fonts, it is possible that lettering could be vectorized into a series of lines or arcs, rather than text. Not ideal. So, why not type over the words, and erase the writing beneath it? And remember, if it’s not legible to you, the computer doesn’t stand a chance!

6. You can convert as many PDFs as you like in one go!

What happens when you’ve got multiple PDF files that you need to use within CAD? It rather depends on which converter you opt for. Poor converters, as well as limiting the quality you’ll achieve, will only let you upload one graphic at a time. This is impractical for many users, who require a more extensive use of the service.

Scan2CAD, on the other hand, lets you use the automatic batch conversion option to save time and increase productivity.

Handy for multiple PDF to DXF conversions, there’s no need to upload your PDFs one at a time. It’s a no-corners-cut shortcut: get the same benefits that you enjoy with individual files, including the option to specify your required upload and vectorization settings.

7. You can do it all for free

There are many file converters available online—and you can even find some of these offering the service for free. However, you need to beware of various issues common to many of them. Poor quality is likely to abound: you may find that the output file is watermarked, or a very large in size. Any letters or numbers contained in the PDF may be vectorized as separate entities, leaving words jumbled and totally unreadable. There is also an increased risk that your digital security will be compromised; the risk of malware is not one to be taken lightly, and this is why we warn against the use of cracks.

And if safety and quality weren’t enough, there are various other pitfalls to conversion freeware. They do not tend to offer comprehensive editing suites, which are necessary to optimize your PDF to DXF conversions, nor advanced tools such as OCR.

However, with Scan2CAD, you get all of this (and more) and can even take advantage of a free 14 day trial. During this period, you will have access to the full, professional version of the software. That way, you can test out all of the features we’ve discussed, without committing with your wallet.

And if, and the end of that time, you do decide that paying for the ultimate vectorization software is indeed worth it, you can enjoy the benefits of this market-leading program for as long as you need them.

If you’re new to the Scan2CAD blog, and would like more advice to aid you in all your CAD needs, check out our tips section, featuring more handy hints and tricks on everything from student resources to building the ultimate CAD PC (and with much more in between).

This guide will show you exactly how you can vectorize using Illustrator. We’ll also highlight when you should use Illustrator, and when you should use software like Scan2CAD instead. Plus, find out how you can get a free download of Scan2CAD. 

Table of Contents

• What Is Vectorization?
• Adobe Illustrator
• Vectorize Using Illustrator
• When Illustrator Should And Shouldn’t Be Used
• What Is Scan2CAD And How Is It Different?
• Problems With Conversion
• How To Get The Best Results
• Scan2CAD: Free Download

What is vectorization?

If you’re a novice in the world of CAD, CNC or graphic design, you might not know what vectorization is. It’s the process of converting a raster image into an editable vector image. This process is otherwise known as image tracing which can be done manually or automatically. 

Manual tracing was originally the only way you could create a vector from a raster image. You can trace over a raster using your mouse, or a tablet and graphics pen. It can be a more advantageous method to use, as you’re more likely to understand the image than a computer. As you can imagine however, this process can be rather time-consuming. 

Automatic tracing involves using a conversion software to convert your raster image to a vector. This process can be a lot quicker than manual tracing. However, you need to be working with high quality images for the software to be able to detect everything correctly. 

Not sure which method to use? Check out tracing: manual or automatic?

Why is vectorization needed in graphic design and CAD?

Raster images come with a variety of problems. They are made up of pixels which mean that when you zoom in, they lose definition and each pixel becomes visible. Rasters are therefore resolution dependent which can be an issue when you want to resize an image. The graphic design industry in particular relies upon artwork and designs that can be infinitely scaled—you don’t want to experience any loss in quality when enlarging. 

Vectors by comparison are mathematically perfect formats. They’re made up of paths which means that no matter how much you change the scaling, they won’t lose their quality. You can therefore use the same vector as a tiny logo on a business card or enlarged on a billboard—vectors are resolution independent.

In regards to CAD and CNC, vector drawings are much easier to edit because you can modify individual vector entities. They’re also much easier to store and share due to their small file size. If you convert to formats like DXF for example, you’re given greater accessibility as they can be opened in any CAD software. For more information, check out raster versus vector. 

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator is an industry-standard vector graphics editor developed and released by Adobe Systems in 1987. It’s used by designers across the world to create digital graphics and illustrations like logos, icons, typography and illustrations for print, web and much more. It’s a companion product of Adobe Photoshop which you might also be familiar with. Photoshop is concerned with digital photo manipulation and photo-realistic computer illustration, whilst Illustrator is geared towards typesetting and graphic design. 

Illustrator can be used to create freehand drawings or to import photographs and images to trace over in order to create a vector. This is primarily useful for graphic design applications—the software can be lacking when it comes to CAD or CNC purposes, which we will discuss later. In addition, the software can be rather expensive, although it is aimed at professionals who are going to use it to its fullest capacity.

Vectorize using Illustrator

You could choose to manually trace your image in Illustrator, but we’re going to look primarily at automatic tracing. 

Adobe Illustrator comes with a handy image trace feature called Live Trace. It enables users to convert raster images to vectors and use feature presets to create various effects. This tracing engine can automatically apply the most appropriate tracing preset—offering users an intuitive and advanced interface. 

Start by placing your image into your Illustrator artboard. Once you’ve selected the image, click Image Trace. To see your options, click on the Image Trace Panel next to View. This panel contains a variety of preset tools that you can use to create certain effects within your image. 

Illustrator tools

• Preset: you can choose the type of image you want to trace so that the software can set the variables needed to produce the vector, e.g. high fidelity photo, sketched art and silhouette. 

• Mode: this defines the color of your image—color, grayscale or black and white. If you select black and white, you’ll be able to use the Threshold tool to adjust the black to white transition. 

• Palette: determines how the colors are chosen for your image trace. 
  • Automatic: switches between a limited and full tone palette. It analyzes your raster image and uses a suitable palette. If the image trace detects fewer colors in your image, it will use a limited palette tracing as a result. 
  • Limited: uses a small set of colors for the tracing palette. If your image has too many colors, it will either choose colors that are similar and close together or choose colors that take up the most area. 
  • Full Tone: determines the color palette by grouping nearby pixels of similar colors together to create each filled region in the result. 

• Colors: the colors slider generates different results depending on the value selected for Mode and Palette. 

• Paths: controls how closely the Bezier paths fit the pixel boundary—the lower it is, the fewer segments and control points it has. The curves of your image will then be much smoother. 

• Corners: determines how likely it is that sharp bends will be turned into a corner point. 

• Noise: specifies the size of the smallest areas of your raster image which will then be taken into account while tracing. 

All done…

You can check the Preview button at any point to see the results of your preset selection. If you’re happy with the result, click on Trace to convert your image into paths. Once you’ve done so, your image will be replaced by vector objects. You can use the pen tool if you need to make any tweaks or changes. Once you’re completely happy with your vector image, you can save it as any vector format including: 

• AI: native format of Adobe Illustrator. 
• EPS: an older print format. 
• PDF: widely used for sharing and printing documents. 
• SVG: used mostly for web graphics and interactive features. 
• DXF: a data exchange format used in CAD. 
• DWG: AutoCAD’s native file format. 

Before and after tracing an image using Image Trace

So now you know how to vectorize using Illustrator. But does this mean that you can use it for vectorizing any image you have? The answer, quite simply, is no. Adobe Illustrator is primarily used for graphic design purposes—if you’re looking for a more specialized approach for use in CAD or CNC, you’ll have to look elsewhere. Read the next section to find out when you should and shouldn’t vectorize using Illustrator. 

When Illustrator should and shouldn’t be used

Adobe Illustrator is catered towards graphic design. If you’re looking to vectorize your logo or use an image for your website, Illustrator will undoubtedly give you a great output. It enables you to produce vectors with a high number of colors and a high level of realism. It can even be used for simple designs in CAD or CNC—you could quite easily convert a logo in Illustrator, edit it in CAD software and send it to CAM for use with a CNC machine. 

If you’re trying to convert a technical drawing for CAD, you could use Illustrator—it does come with a technical drawing preset. However, it’s a generalized trace—the variables used will be the same regardless of whether you’re converting an architectural drawing or a mechanical drawing. In addition, Illustrator will take longer to convert a scanned image. If your drawing includes text, the live trace might not even detect it properly. This could lead to you having to re-write the text. 

The process of vectorization can also be time-consuming in Illustrator. If you’re vectorizing different types of technical drawings, you want to make sure that the variables used are suitable. Your architectural drawings for example, should retain sharp corners, whilst your contour maps should be converted into Bezier curves or splines. If you’re not happy with the results of the conversion, then you have to go back and make further modifications. So why not use a specialized solution?

What is Scan2CAD and how is it different?

Scan2CAD is a two-in-one solution. It’s a raster-to-vector converter and a PDF-to-vector converter. Its primary focus is on the conversion of technical drawings like site plans to usable and editable vector images. It can be used by anyone in any industry—from mechanical engineering to infrastructure to product design. 

Adobe Illustrator has two main disadvantages when it comes to conversion for CAD or CNC: it only offers a generalized trace for all technical drawings and it can be a time-consuming process. Scan2CAD offers solutions to both of these issues. Scan2CAD comes with vector recognition for architectural drawings, contour maps and much more. In addition, it has specific vectorization settings that take different variables into consideration depending on the type of drawing you’re converting. 

In regards to time efficiency, Scan2CAD’s batch processing feature enables users to automate tasks on thousands of files at once. These converted files can then be opened in any CAD, CNC or GIS package. And with Smart OCR, you won’t come across any issues when converting raster text to vector text—you can even train the software to recognize new or handwritten fonts. 

OCR in Scan2CAD

How does the process work?

Scan2CAD detects the lines and edges present in your image and redraws them as vector entities such as: lines, polygons, circles and Bezier curves. It takes into consideration a number of parameters including the angle of the curves, line weights and the type of line. Scan2CAD comes with pre-programmed variables and vectorization settings that control exactly how your conversion is carried out. It also allows you to make use of a raster and vector editing suite so that you can tidy up your image before and after conversion. 

Want to know what the best part is about using Scan2CAD? The process takes only a matter of seconds—as you can see below. 

Problems with conversion

Poor image quality

The quality of your vector output is dependent on your input file. After all, if you’re looking to convert a technical drawing for use in CAD, you need the ultimate precision. An architectural floor plan for example, is useless if it’s full of broken lines or shadows. You can tell your image is of poor quality if it contains any of the following issues: 

• Heavy pixelation. Pixels become obvious, and the image looks blurry. 
• Low resolution. Lines should be around 5 pixels thick to obtain a good vector output. 
• Dithered lines. This usually arises with scanned pencil drawings. 
• Merged lines. If your drawing has text written over a line, the software won’t be able to distinguish one from the other. 
• Hairy lines. Essentially lines that have fuzzy edges. 
• Shadows. Another issue that plagues scanned drawings. 

Don’t bother converting any raster image that sports any of these problems…

Converting before tidying up

If you try to convert your drawing before addressing any of these issues, your output vector won’t be of a high standard. Drawings need to be checked before and after conversion to ensure that all elements have been correctly recognized. The last thing you want is for one of your dashed lines for example, to be mistaken as short lines. 

Not choosing the right settings

Each image requires different settings when it comes to vectorization. As we mentioned earlier, if you’re working with technical drawings, you don’t want a generalized conversion. Scan2CAD comes with vectorization settings that allow for a more specialized conversion. If your drawing contains straight, orthogonal lines then it might be best suited to the Mechanical setting. If you’re looking to trace the outline of a solid shape, Outline might be more to your suiting. It even comes with a setting for CNC designs. 

How to get the best results

Scan2CAD supports a variety of file types, allowing you to convert from a number of raster files to a vector file format of your own choosing. In order to produce the optimal result possible however, you need to tidy up your image. Scan2CAD has a series of tools on offer that can be used so that you don’t have to make further changes in the CAD software you take your drawing to. 

Pre- and post-processing work

• Pick the right format. If you’re working with scanned images, you should save them in the TIFF format which comes with lossless compression. You need to start with the right format to ensure you get the best result. 

• Reduce colors. Ideally, you want your raster image to have as few colors as possible in order to give you the clearest possible contrast between the background and foreground. Reducing colors is vital, because the converter will detect every shade and produce separate vector entities as a result. 

• Thresholding. This allows you to divide your raster image cleanly into black and white pixels. It’s especially important with scanned images that often come with grayscale or compression artifacts. There are two types of thresholding: 
  • Simple thresholding: applied to the whole image. 
  • Adaptive thresholding: applied to different parts of your raster file. 

• Deskew the image. If your drawing is scanned at a slight angle, it won’t be converted into clean, straight lines in the vector. Scan2CAD’s deskewing tools will fix this problem. 

• Cleaning tools. Scan2CAD comes with cleaning tools that you can use to combat the problems highlighted earlier. 
  • Remove holes or speckles. 
  • Thicken lines to fix broke or dithered lines. 
  • Smooth to remove hairy edges surrounding your image. 

Of course that’s just the tip of the iceberg. You can check Scan2CAD’s raster quality checklist to see how you can fix any further issues you might come across. Alternatively, take a look at our top 10 raster effects for more ways to optimize your raster before the conversion process. 

All sorted?

Once you’re happy with your image, you can move on to the easiest part of the entire process. Unlike other conversion software, Scan2CAD can convert your drawing in a matter of seconds. Once the vectorization process is complete, you can then save your new vector as a DXF, DWG or even as  G-code ready for use with CNC control software. With Scan2CAD, it couldn’t be easier—as you can see below. 

Here’s a floorplan — before and after conversion! We’ve used Scan2CAD to convert it from a scanned image (left) to an editable vector (right); and saved it as DXF

Scan2CAD: free download

If you’re converting images for graphic design purposes, then go ahead and continue using Adobe Illustrator. If you’re looking to convert technical drawings or complex designs for use in CAD and CNC however, why not give Scan2CAD a try?

Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, Scan2CAD offers you a specialized solution for all of your vectorization needs. Scan2CAD has been used across industries for a range of uses from routed signs to metal sculpting to glass reproduction. Plus it can be used for CNC projects like laptop decals, wooden plaques and stencils. It’s the ultimate vectorization software. 

So instead of messing around using software like Adobe Illustrator or outsourcing your CAD designs, why not convert them yourself with Scan2CAD? You can try out the software in a free 14-day trial with absolutely no limitations—you can convert as many files as you want without watermarks. Just click on the button below to get started. 

Stay updated on all things CAD, CNC and CAM-related with Scan2CAD’s blog covering topics ranging from outsourcing CAD conversion to the pitfalls of designing for CNC. 

This guide will show you how you can use Scan2CAD to vectorize your logo for CNC—and we’ve even included tips to help you optimize your logo before you take it to your CNC machine. Plus, we’ll show you examples of vectorized logos and how you can get Scan2CAD free for 14 days—letting you convert as many logos (and files) as you want. 

Table of Contents

• Why convert a raster to a vector?
• What is vectorization?
• Online converters vs. Scan2CAD
• Designing for CNC: ultimate tips
  • Choosing the right image
  • Pre-conversion tips
  • Post-conversion tips
• Converted logos with Scan2CAD
• Extra resources

Why Convert A Raster To A Vector?

For General Purposes

Rasters are commonly used for photographs—most of the images you see on your computer are stored in a raster graphics format. You’ll no doubt recognize formats like JPG, BMP and GIF. Unfortunately, rasters come with a range of disadvantages. They’re made up of pixels, so when you alter the image, it can become blurry and undefined. They’re also resolution dependent, so your logo would need to be at the right scale to appear correctly. 

Vectors by comparison, are mathematically ‘perfect’ formats. They’re popular in graphic design and engineering because they don’t suffer from loss of quality. Vectors are made up of paths and rely on mathematical coordinates. This means that no matter how many times you change the scale of the vector, it won’t lose quality. This is useful if you need different sizes of your logo, e.g. on a business card, on your website or on a billboard. The most popular vector types are AutoCAD’s proprietary format DWG, and the exchange file format DXF.

Take a look at our article covering raster versus vector for more information. 

For CNC

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. CNC machines work by using subtractive manufacturing techniques. This means that they remove material from your initial piece. Examples of CNC machines include: 

• Routers
• Milling machines
• Lathes
• Plasma cutters
• Laser cutters

CNC machines work by executing a series of pre-programmed commands. The most common programming language is G-code, which controls how your machine’s tool moves—controlling its position and depth on the X, Y and Z axes. It also controls the rate at which your tool moves, the speed it rotates at and the type of motion required. 

You need your logo in a vector format to take your design to fabrication. The process starts with converting your logo to a vector file format, which will dictate how your image is rendered. You can then convert the vector to G-code which will be read and turned into motion by control software. This control software will then run your CNC machine. 

Don’t just be tempted to go for simply milling your logo. Why not try something more innovative? You could create laptop decals of your logo or even mill it onto acrylic sheets with an LED light to illuminate the card. These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg—check out 11 CNC project ideas for more.

What Is Vectorization?

Vectorization is the process of converting a raster to a vector. This process typically involves tracing over a raster image with vector lines. This can be done manually or automatically. 

Manual Tracing

Originally, manual tracing was the only way you could create a vector from a raster image. You would have to create a vector layer on top of your raster and then trace over it with vector lines. You could either use a mouse to trace over every line, or make use of a tablet and graphics pen to draw over it. 

Manual tracing can be advantageous, as you’re far more likely to understand the image than a computer. You can look at your logo, for example, and know exactly where each line is and how the image is supposed to look. This is particularly useful if you’re using an image that is faded or of low quality. A computer, meanwhile, can only work off of the lines it can detect. Tracing manually can, however, be a time-consuming process which is why many opt for the more time-efficient process of automatic tracing.

Automatic Tracing

Automatic tracing typically involves a conversion program—such as Scan2CAD—which can instantly convert your raster image to a vector. The software will detect the lines and edges present in your logo, and redraw them as vector lines, curves, arcs and other vector entities. This process is much faster than manual tracing. However, you need to be working with high-quality images with few colors for it to work well. 

Some artists work with both types of tracing, e.g. printing out their raster image, tracing over the outlines by hand, and scanning the image back into vectorization software. 

If you’re not sure what type of tracing you should use, take a look at tracing: manual or automatic.

Online Converters vs. Scan2CAD

Online Converters

It can be tempting to choose the first online converter that you come across—there are dozens available after all. They all promise to convert your logo quickly, with no downloads necessary. The problem is that the quality of your output vector depends on the quality of the converter you pick. Disadvantages to these types of converters include: 

• Online converters often cut corners and don’t always provide a full range of vector entities. 
• The finished product is often difficult to edit with CAD software.
• They don’t allow large file sizes or batch conversion.
• They struggle with converting text in images to editable vector text.
• You run the risk of downloading viruses or trojans.

The real question is: is it worth facing the many pitfalls of online converters? The answer is no—there are plenty of cost-effective conversion software solutions out there, like Scan2CAD.

Scan2CAD

Scan2CAD is a market-leading raster-to-vector conversion software. Its primary focus is the conversion of technical drawings—ranging from engineering drawings to site plans—to usable editable vector images. Scan2CAD can be used in a variety of ways, from routed signs to glass reproduction to metal sculpting. 

The software comes with batch processing, flexible licensing and 24/7 support. Plus, it supports no fewer than 33 supported file types—from raster file types like BMP and TIFF to vector file types like DWG and DXF. 

What Makes Scan2CAD Different To Other Converters?

Scan2CAD doesn’t just convert your raster images. It also comes with a raster and vector editing suite so you can fully optimize your image before and after vectorization. The vectorization isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ process either—Scan2CAD offers a range of vectorization type settings. These come with pre-programmed variables that control how your conversion is carried out—for example, controlling how the software looks out for arcs or Bezier curves. 

And the best part is, it only takes a matter of seconds. Don’t believe us? Take a look at the animation below. 

And that’s not all! Scan2CAD isn’t just useful for converting your files to a vector file format, it can also be used for CAM applications. Once you have a vector, you can use Scan2CAD to convert it directly to a G-code format—Scan2CAD currently supports three of the most popular G-code file types including CNC, NC and TAP. 

For a better look at Scan2CAD’s full capabilities, take a look at Scan2CAD: the ultimate vectorization software. 

Designing For CNC: Ultimate Tips

If you want to convert your logo for CNC, you will need to complete some pre- and post-processing work to ensure that your logo is fully optimized. CNC machines require ultimate precision, which is why there are some guidelines in place to ensure you get the best possible output. We’ve included tips on how to pick the right logo, how to optimize it before conversion, and a few post-processing tips to complete before you send your logo to your CNC machine. 

Choosing The Right Image

• Ensure that it’s of high resolution. You don’t want any pixelation as it will affect your vector output. This is even more vital if you’re vectorizing your logo for CNC purposes. 

• No shadows. If there are shadows present on your logo, it might confuse the software. 

• Make use of lossless compression. You should ensure that your logo is in a raster file format that uses lossless compression, e.g. BMP, PNG or TIFF. 

• Try to pick a logo with as few colors as possible. We recommend 2-bit color which is crucial in CNC—one color represents the cut path and the other represents the area that the machine doesn’t cut. 

• The logo should be as clean as possible—without blurred sections or overlapping elements. 

• Don’t use compound curves. CNC machines don’t like curves like splines or ellipses. They prefer polylines, which can only include line and arc segments. 

Examples of common problems with raster images.

Pre-Conversion Tips

• Thresholding. This tool enables you to divide your logo into black and white pixels. This eliminates the issues caused by grayscale images or compression artifacts. There are two types: 
  • Simple thresholding: applies to the whole logo. 
  • Adaptive thresholding: applies to different parts of your logo. 

• Thicken lines: this will fix broken or dithered lines. 

• Clean: this will remove holes or speckles in your logo. 

• Smooth: usually the last tool to use, this removes the ‘hairy’ edges surrounding your logo. 

Of course, Scan2CAD has many more features on offer. Take a look at our raster quality checklist, or our top 10 raster effects for more tips on how to optimize your raster before the conversion process. 

Post-Conversion Tips

Your image isn’t 100% complete, even after you’ve converted it. You still need to do a bit of post-conversion work by checking that all of the elements in your logo have been correctly recognized. A dashed line for example, could be mistaken as short lines. A great tip to help with the tidy-up process is to use grids (the shortcut is Shift+l). You have to zoom in closely to view the grid, as each square is one pixel. By using the grid, you can check whether your lines are clean and straight. 

Here are few clever uses of the grid when tidying up images: to align shapes and ensure clean lines

Post-conversion tidying is even more vital if you’re converting for CNC: 

• Check that the vector contains single line cut paths. You can join multiple separate lines or polylines by using Scan2CAD’s Snap tool. 

• Remove as many node counts and intersections as you can without compromising your logo. 

• Check that the lines are connected perfectly, as you’ll want one coherent cut path. Pay close attention to this near corners and curves. 

• CNC machines prefer to work with polylines rather than broken entities like arcs and Beziers. You can convert by using Scan2CAD’s vector editing tools. 

Once you’re happy, you just need to start the vectorization process and off you go. 

Need more help? Take a look at Scan2CAD’s tips to take your ideas from design to CNC fabrication. 

Converted Logos with Scan2CAD

If you’re still skeptical regarding Scan2CAD’s capabilities, check out our vectorization of Ford and Nike’s logos. 

The process was simple enough—we started by loading our raster logos into Scan2CAD. We then made use of Scan2CAD’s pre-conversion tools to optimize the rasters, including: ‘Threshold‘, ‘Clean‘ and ‘Thicken‘. The optimization process was finished off with the ‘Smooth‘ tool. The vectorization settings type varied with both logos—we found that the Ford logo was suited to the ‘Outline‘ setting. In comparison, the Nike logo was better suited to the ‘CNC profile‘ setting. Once we were happy with the result, we started the vectorization process. 

The screenshots below show four stages of the entire process. The first image is the original logo and the image next to it was taken after using the Threshold tool. The third image is the vectorized logo. The fourth image allows us to view the vectors by color—green shows polylines, which CNC machines prefer to work with. 

Prefer to see Scan2CAD in action? The video below shows you how you can make a laser-etched plaque. It takes you through the process of vectorizing a picture of a minion (using the Picture/Photo option) with added text and a vintage frame. It couldn’t be any easier! 

• Types of CNC machines compared
• Which control software should I use
• CNC kits for beginners
• What is G-code?

• Scan2CAD’s free DXF packs 
• Vector Ink  
• My DXF  
• Love SVG

Want more? Check out 13 sites with free DXFs

Want to convert your designs for CNC? Try out Scan2CAD’s free 14-day trial and make use of its full range of features with no limitations—no watermarks and no obligations. Don’t forget to keep an eye on Scan2CAD’s blog covering all the latest CNC news—from new innovations to how to reverse engineer a part from a 2D scan. 

Not enough for you? We’ll explain the CNC design guidelines, and what cut-ready means. And, if you’ve already got your own images to use, we’ll even show you how you can use Scan2CAD to convert these designs ready for CNC use.

Table of Contents

• What is CNC?
• How do you design using CNC? 
• How does Scan2CAD convert images for CNC?
• CNC: the do’s and don’ts
• What does cut-ready mean? 
• Free DXF designs

What is CNC? 

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. It’s an umbrella term used to describe a variety of machines that are controlled by a computer. Essentially, the physical movements of these machines are controlled by specific instructions—commonly following the Cartesian coordinates format. By using these machines, you can create anything from laptop decals to wooden signs. 

What type of CNC machines are there? 

There are many different types of CNC machines out there, the ones below are just the tip of the iceberg!

• CNC mills. Milling is a process that removes material from a piece by feeding a tool specific directions and angles. 
• Plasma cutters. This involves cutting a material (usually metal) using a plasma torch. 
• Laser etching. This process burns designs onto a piece of material by using lasers. 
• Vinyl cutters. These machines use a sharp blade to cut shapes out of adhesive vinyl. 
• Embroidery machines. These sewing machines move their needles to follow a pre-programmed digital embroidery pattern. 

You can use a variety of materials to cut and engrave from, ranging from acrylic sheets to plastics, metals, glass and even rubber. Needless to say, the possibilities are endless. Don’t believe us? Check out our 11 innovative CNC project ideas! If you haven’t got a CNC machine of your own, why not look at Scan2CAD’s top CNC kits for beginners?

How Do You Design Using CNC?

To begin the CNC process, your design needs to be a vector file format like DXF, as opposed to a raster file format like JPG. Not sure what the difference is between rasters and vectors? Check out raster versus vector. 

A vector image is a set of mathematical instructions that will dictate how your image is rendered. The numbers are essentially coordinates that control the movement of your CNC machine, e.g. making the machine carve a straight line by moving the cutter 3 units right, starting at point A. These instructions will be fed into your CNC machine, which will then create your design. 

You could manually trace your image to convert it to a vector; however, most people opt for automatic conversion software to convert an image for CNC. This software can trace a raster image using vectorization algorithms to convert it to a vector. Of course, you have to use the right kind of conversion software, otherwise you’ll encounter the many pitfalls of online converters. 

This is where Scan2CAD comes in. Scan2CAD is a conversion software which comes with a range of raster and vector editing suites to help you create the most optimal vector image you can use for your CNC design. And believe us—it’s a super fast process. But don’t just take our word for it, look at the animation below to see it in action!

In this animation we convert an anchor image to a vector outline for CNC using Scan2CAD

Want to know how the Scan2CAD conversion process works? Check out the JPEG to DXF conversion process, or read the next section.

How Does Scan2CAD Convert Images For CNC? 

If you’ve already got your own images that you want to use in your CNC projects, you might be wondering how to go about converting them for CNC. Well, have no worries—this is where Scan2CAD truly excels. Scan2CAD is the ultimate vectorization software, and can convert rasters to vectors, making them ready to use for CNC purposes. 

So how does the process actually work?

Scan2CAD’s vectorization process is completed in mere seconds—it couldn’t be easier. 

• Load your raster in Scan2CAD. This is just like loading a file in any other program. Click ‘File‘ > ‘Raster‘ > ‘Load‘. 

• Select your image setting type. Scan2CAD comes with vectorization settings, each of which are tailored to produce optimal results for specific types of images. CNC profile ensures that your image is made up of single line cut paths instead of multiple polylines. Click ‘Type‘ > ‘CNC Profile‘.

• Convert your image. To vectorize your image you can click: 
  •  : which converts lines, curves and shapes to vectors. 
  •  : to convert raster text to vector text. 
  •  : which converts the entire image (lines and text) to vectors. 

• Save your file. Click ‘File‘ > ‘Vector‘ > ‘Save As‘. You can save your vector in any CNC-compatible format. The most compatible format is the DXF file format—every CAD/CAM/CNC software supports it. You can also save your vector into G-code formats like NC, TAP and CNC. 

And there you go—you’re all finished! You can now import your new vector file in any CAD/CAM/CNC software to use with any CNC machine. If your interest is piqued, you can try out Scan2CAD’s free 14-day trial with absolutely no limitations—just click the button below. 

download Scan2CAD for free here

Designing for CNC: The Dos and Don’ts

If you’re looking to convert an image for CNC as shown in the above section, you might be wondering if there are any guidelines. The answer is yes, there are. Simply put, you need to do some pre- and post-processing work to fully optimize your image. We’ve previously discussed this in our top 10 raster effects. For a few more CNC design guidelines, check out our do’s and don’ts below. 

 Pick images with high resolution. You don’t want any pixelation as it will mess up the CNC process. You should ensure that your chosen design is of a high quality. 

 Make it 5 pixels thick. The general rule of thumb for ideal conversion is a 5 pixels thick image. 

 Choose an image using lossless compression. If you don’t know what lossless compression is or which images use it, check out our 33 supported file types. 

 Don’t use compound curves. CNC machines don’t like curves like splines or ellipses. They prefer polylines, which can only include line and arc segments. 

 Check you have single cut connected paths. Pay attention to this near corner junction points and curves. 

 No overlap. You don’t want any of your lines overlapping. Also, if there’s anything you don’t want in your design, delete it. 

 Beauty tips. Make sure there are no shadows and fewer colors in your design—you want a clean image to ensure the best result possible. 

What Does Cut-Ready Mean?

A cut-ready design is an image that is ready to be cut or produced with a CNC machine. Of course, that doesn’t necessarily mean that all you have to do is send it to your machine and off you go. CNC machines require a lot of fine-tuning and calibrations for different designs and materials. You need to scale the cut-ready design to an appropriate size for your CNC machine, and you need to check the cut depths, widths, and the speed of your machine. 

Essentially, cut-ready designs don’t convey machine settings—you have to do this yourself. While this might sound time-consuming, it can still be a lot faster than using your own converted designs. When you create your own vectors, you have to do a lot of pre- and post-processing work. Cut-ready designs by comparison, are ready to go—all you need to do is calibrate your machine’s settings, and off you go. 

Looking for free DXF designs like the image on the right? Check out the last section below to get your own free DXF packs.

Free DXF Designs

We’ve already looked at the wide variety of websites offering free DXF designs. However, a problem with these sites is that they only really offer you a finite source—they’re only updated once a month with one or two designs. But what if you want frequent updates and new designs? Well, that’s where Scan2CAD truly shines. 

Scan2CAD isn’t just a conversion software, it’s a source for everything related to CAD, CAM and CNC. It’s of no surprise therefore, that we offer our own cut-ready CNC designs that are free and ready to use with your CNC machines. And we don’t just offer one or two free DXF images. We release new DXF packs every single week—these packs typically contain 6 or 7 designs in a DXF and JPG format. 

Worried they won’t be to your taste? Don’t bother. Each week brings about a new theme, so you can be sure that Scan2CAD is going to provide you with new, innovative and exciting designs. We’ve already released packs ranging from Vintage Frames to Nautical Discovery, to Birds—as you can see below. 

Scan2CAD commissions a professional designer to create these DXF packs each week—just for you. These royalty-free DXF designs are created by a range of fantastic designers including Jay Madison, Ivana Todorovski and Don Ouwens. 

So if you like to challenge yourself with a new project every week—this is the solution for you. Subscribe today and get a new DXF pack sent to you every single week!

Can I convert this scanned technical drawing to vector?

This engineering schematic is a terrible candidate for raster-to-vector conversion

Nope, not this one! It is common for folks to scan a floorplan or technical drawing and convert it to vector, so that the drawing can be used in another CAD application (such as AutoCAD). However, you cannot achieve that with this image above. First, it’s a very poor quality JPG file – zoom in and you’ll get a blurry, distorted mess of pixels. Lots of data would also have been lost when the JPG file is saved, as JPG uses file compression to minimize the file size. Secondly, the image holds up to 16.7 million colors. Ideally, it would be just black and white. If there are too many colors (such as many shades of gray), vectorization software would pick out different zones of colors as different vector elements. Finally, the text is completely unreadable, even to the human eye. The Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software would find it almost impossible to read and retype this into vector text.

Meanwhile, this floorplan would be converted to vector without a hitch!

Instead, you need to use a technical drawing that looks like this one. This floor plan that is perfect for vector conversion.

• It is clear of any noise (such as speckles).
• The image is in pure black and white.
• The text characters that make up the labels of the floorplan are also well-isolated from each other (i.e. the characters do not touch or overlap).
• Another best practice is to save the image as a TIFF file format. Click to download the sample floorplan.tif generated by Scan2CAD.

Can I convert this photo for 3D CAD use?

Image source: nps.gov

Don’t bother trying to scan a photo of a house to create 3D vector plans of the building. It is simply not possible; no one can write software to achieve that—ever! Consider all the information that is missing – one cannot tell the scale of the house from the photo without making some assumptions, and the image doesn’t reveal the part of the house that faces away from the photographer. A more realistic option is to work with a skilled designer to create a 3D vector plan, using the photo as inspiration. There are also 3D scanners that can be used to construct 3D models, but this doesn’t sit in the realm of raster-to-vector conversion.

Can I trace the outlines of shapes from photos?

The left-most image is completely unsuitable. The middle image is somewhat more suitable, but the right-most image is ideal

Check out the image above, on the left. Automatic vectorization software cannot trace clean outlines of these individual flowers—the image is simply too busy. If you’re looking to achieve this, your best bet may be to manually trace the image—for example, by using the Pen tool in Scan2CAD.

A better option could be to find an image of a single flower, with no overlap, such as the image in the middle above. Using such an image, you could then increase the threshold until you remove any unnecessary detail, leaving you with a usable outline.

The ideal candidate would be the image on the right. As it is a silhouette, made up of only two colors, with no distortion, it’s perfect for vectorization.

If you’re looking to create a more photo-realistic vector image, rather than an outline, then this is possible with Scan2CAD. We opened the original image, seen below on the left, in Scan2CAD, and reduced the number of colors in order to create an image with solid regions of color. We then created a simpler vector image from the original.

Using Scan2CAD, you can alter a number of settings during the vectorization process, such as vector definition, profile and types. You can see the effect of changing each setting in the Live Preview window which appears in your dialog box. Learn more about vectorizing pictures and photos in our User Manual.

Can I convert these logos into vector format?

It is best to use the clean logo file on the right, instead of a photo of the logo against a full background (left). Do note, however, that the logo on the right needs some cleaning. The image looks great viewed at this scale, but when you zoom in a little closer, you’ll notice some blurred lines and distortion. We recommend using Scan2CAD’s Color Segment tool to reduce the colors.

Can I reverse-engineer these tools from a scan?

Image source: Into The Woods blog and Alloy Artifacts

You will not yield an accurate vector outline of the tool from the image on the left. There are two main problems. First, the photo was not taken directly above the tool, therefore the different aspects of the tool are not shown in the correct scale. Secondly, the image does not have a clear contrast between the tool and the background. You should try scanning or photographing the tool on a clean, white background. As an extra tip, try your best to minimize the shadows in the photo.

The photo on the right gets extra credit because they included a ruler as reference of measurement. Another tip could be to scan the tool with a piece of graph paper in the background. We’ve also written a step-by-step guide on How to Reverse Engineer a Part from a 2D Scan.

We hope that this post has shed some light on what conversion software can do, and what it can’t. Here are some resources that you might find handy:

• Find out what is and isn’t possible when converting photos to CAD
• Check out our Raster quality checklist to help you choose the right image to begin with
• Learn about our top 10 raster effects to clean and optimize your raster image before conversion

Scan2CAD is the market-leading vectorization software, and comes complete with a full raster and vector editing suite. Plus, a blog covering all the latest news—from Top 3D CAD models to CNC Projects to CAD Freeware. You can try out all of Scan2CAD’s features for yourself, with our 14-day free trial.

This guide covers everything you could possible want to know about the GIF to DXF conversion process—from what conversion is, to how you can get the best results. Plus, we’ll show you how you can get Scan2CAD free for 14 days—letting you convert as many files as you want.

Table of Contents

• What is a GIF file?
• What is a DXF file?
• Why convert from GIF to DXF?
• How does the conversion process work?
• Why you should avoid online conversion tools
• Problems with GIF to DXF conversion
• How to get the best results
• Using Scan2CAD to convert GIF to DXF
• Features offered by Scan2CAD

What is a GIF file?

GIF, or Graphics Interchange Format, is a bitmap image format that was developed in 1987. It was created to provide a color image format, and has since become widespread. The format is popular for use with simple web graphics due to its wide support and portability.

GIFs have an 8-bit color depth—that’s 256 colors. This is a rather limited color palette compared to other formats such as JPG which has a 24-bit color depth (16 million colors). This limitation makes the GIF file format rather unsuitable for image types like photographs, but it does suffice for simpler images like graphics or logos. Whilst GIFs do make use of lossless compression, their resolution is still too low for most complex images. In fact, the quality of a GIF can be so low that the noise can cause problems when it comes to vectorization.

Fun fact: did you know that the pronunciation of GIF has caused a lot of confusion? The creator, Steve Wilhite, intended it to be pronounced with a soft ‘j‘ sound like ‘jail’. However, many other people have adopted the pronunciation with a harsh ‘g‘ sound, like ‘gift’. 

What is a DXF file?

DXF, or Drawing eXchange Format, is a vector file format which was created by Autodesk with the intention of becoming an exchange medium between different CAD programs. Unlike the DWG file format, DXF is not a proprietary file format. It’s an open standard, so it’s supported by practically every CAD program on the market. You can view DXF files using a wide variety of programs, including AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator and, of course, Scan2CAD. This wide compatibility and support has made the DXF format the de facto format for collaboration and sharing in the CAD industry.

DXF images are smaller than their raster counterparts, as they don’t need to store color information for every single pixel. However, they are larger than the DWGs, as the DWG file format is binary whereas DXFs are made up of ASCII text. 

Want to know more about the DXF file format? Check out our DXF FAQs and the DXF file specification. 

Why convert from GIF to DXF?

• For scaling an image. Rasters are made up of pixels, so they become blurry and undefined when you rescale or zoom in. Vectors, however, are infinitely scalable. This means you can rescale or zoom in to a vector image without any loss in quality. For more information, check out our article on the differences between rasters and vectors.

• For sharing. DXFs can be shared across a multitude of programs which means that you’re not limited in any way. Since practically every CAD program on the market comes with support for DXF, you can collaborate with any designer, with no hassle.

• To edit a drawing. Trying to edit a raster image is like painting. You can’t edit specific elements of the image; any changes you make will affect the image as a whole. Vector file types, however, are easy to edit because they’re made up of individual vector paths. You can even take individual elements from a DXF file to reuse in another!

How does the conversion process work?

The process of converting a raster to a vector is otherwise known as vectorization. This process involves tracing over the raster image with vector lines. This can be completed manually or automatically.

Manual Tracing

Image source: graphicdesign.stackexchange.com

Traditionally, manual tracing was the only way you could create a vector representation of a raster image. This would involve creating a vector layer on top of the raster, and then tracing over it with vector lines—this could be done with a mouse or a graphics pen. 

There are advantages to this method. It has the benefit of human understanding—only a human would be able to fully understand what the image represents. If you have an old, faded electrical diagram, you’d know exactly where the lines were. In comparison, a computer would falter, as it can only work off of lines it can detect. Essentially, this means that it’s possible to manually trace an image of any quality. However, this method is not without its disadvantages—it can be a very time-consuming process, particularly for more complex images. Consequently, many designers opt for the more time-efficient method of automatic tracing.

Automatic Tracing

This process involves using a raster-to-vector conversion program to instantly convert your raster image. Your chosen software will detect the lines and edges present in your GIF. It will then redraw them as vector lines, curves, polygons and other vector entities. You simply have to load your image into the program, and you can produce a vector in a few mere clicks. Some advanced programs, such as Scan2CAD, even have the capability of recognizing raster text within an image using OCR (Optical Character Recognition) tools—it can then redraw the raster text as vector text.

Of course, automatic conversion can have setbacks. The program you use won’t have the same level of understanding of the raster as you do. The image you want to convert will have to be very clear and of high quality. Even then, you usually need to complete a lot of pre- and post-processing work. Still, it is a very cost-effective method—saving hours of work and cutting conversion time to mere seconds. Don’t believe us? Check out the process below!

For more information, check out our article covering the differences between manual and automatic tracing. You can also get a more in-depth look at the conversion process by learning how to automatically trace an image. 

Why you should avoid online conversion tools

It can be very tempting to pick the first online conversion tool that you come across. After all, there are dozens of online conversion tools available—and they all promise to convert your file quickly, with no downloads necessary. 

There are many limitations to these types of tools, however. Firstly, you can only convert a small number of files. And don’t even think about attempting to convert anything with a large file size. Not to mention that you won’t be able to get a high-quality result. Plus, if your image contains any text, it probably won’t be converted into editable vector text—and even if it is, it probably won’t even be arranged into logical strings. 

The text on the left was converted using Scan2CAD. The text on the right was converted using a different CAD program, and hasn’t been correctly reassembled into strings.

Worse still, online converters can be unsafe and have a number of security risks. There’s the danger of someone stealing your work, and you have to think about the probability of a virus or trojan infecting your system. Check out the 5 pitfalls of online file converters for more information.

In the long run, it really isn’t worth taking the risk. Software like Scan2CAD, however, keeps your files and your system safe and secure. It runs locally, and it can offer effective and precise conversions. 

Problems with GIF to DXF conversion

Firstly it should be noted that animations aren’t useful when creating CAD designs. Therefore if you’re converting an animated GIF to DXF the conversion software will pick the first frame of the animation and ignore all subsequent frames.

It’s not possible to merely convert your image to a vector straight away—you have to prepare the image before you convert it. You have to have a high-quality image for vectorization to work successfully. However, GIFs, as with many other raster file types, suffer from a variety of ‘common problems‘ that can affect your chances of gaining optimal vectorization results. 

Don’t bother converting any raster image that sports any of these problems…

Failure to address these types of issues before vectorization means that your resulting vector image won’t be of a high standard. Don’t worry—Scan2CAD has some top tips to help you optimize your raster and the get the best possible vector output.

How to get the best results

• Use a different file format than GIF. GIFs suffer from a range of issues. They’re typically low in quality, so the noise will cause problems for vectorization. For optimal conversion results, Scan2CAD recommends saving your image as a TIFF. TIFFs use lossless compression and are of high resolution—they’re the perfect file format for vectorization. Of course, it’s not always possible to use a different file format. In this case, you can take other measures to optimize your GIF before vectorization.

• Thresholding. This tool enables you to divide your image cleanly into black and white pixels—eliminating the issues caused by grayscale images or compression artifacts. There are two types: 
  • Simple thresholding: this applies to the whole image.
  • Adaptive thresholding: this applies to different parts of your GIF file.

• Cleaning tools: Scan2CAD comes with a range of cleaning tools that can help you eradicate most of the issues affecting GIFs. 
  • Thicken lines: this will fix broken or dithered lines.
  • Remove holes or speckles.
  • Smooth: this will remove ‘hairy’ edges surrounding your image.

These tools are just a small example of the many cleaning features that Scan2CAD offers. Take a look at our raster quality checklist to see how you can fix any issues. You can also check out our top 10 raster effects to optimize your raster before the conversion process. 

Using Scan2CAD to convert GIF to DXF

Scan2CAD can convert your GIF to a DXF in mere seconds—it boasts of the fastest conversion process out there. And it couldn’t be simpler!

• Load your GIF in Scan2CAD. This is like loading a file in any other program. Click File > Raster > Load and select your GIF.

• Choose the settings. Scan2CAD comes with vectorization settings, each of which are individually tailored to produce optimal results for a specific type of image. Select the type menu, and choose the appropriate setting.
  Tip: check out Scan2CAD’s handy guide for all vectorization settings. 

• Convert your image. To vectorize your image you can click:
  • : which converts lines, curves and shapes to vectors.
  • : to convert raster text to vector text. 
  • : which converts the entire image (lines and text) to vectors.

• Save your vector as a DXF. Click File > Vector > Save As. 

Features offered by Scan2CAD

Scan2CAD is a two-in-one solution. It’s a raster to vector converter, and a PDF to vector converter. Its primary focus is the conversion of technical drawings—ranging from engineering drawings, to architectural drawings and even site plans—to usable and editable vector images. 

It comes with a wide variety of market-leading innovative features and capabilities. It has an extensive raster and vector editing suite, to help you optimize your image before and after vectorization. That’s not all. Scan2CAD has batch processing capabilities, so you can automatically convert hundreds of files—in one click! Plus, its Smart OCR feature allows you to train the software to recognize unusual fonts—and even handwritten fonts.

With Scan2CAD, you can rest assured knowing that you’re using a safe and secure program. It comes with flexible licensing, 24/7 support and it supports no fewer than 33 file types—so you can convert more than just GIFs! You won’t be able to find such capabilities anywhere else.

Don’t believe us? Read up on why Scan2CAD is the ultimate vectorization software.

Interested in converting from GIF to DXF? Try out Scan2CAD’s free 14-day trial and make use of its full range of professional features with no limitations—no watermarks and no obligations. You can also convert using a wide range of different file types—check out how to convert BMP to DXF.

However, whilst PDF files are easy to view, editing them is much trickier. If you wish to edit, use, or repurpose your design (or any elements within it), you’ll need to convert it to a vector image format.

Converting your PDF to DWG means that you can edit your design in many of the most popular CAD programs, including AutoCAD. In this guide, you can find out exactly how to convert your files using Scan2CAD, complete with comprehensive, step-by-step instructions. We’ll even show you how to get your own copy of Scan2CAD—completely free for 14 days.

Table of Contents

• What is a PDF file?
• What is a DWG file?
• Why convert PDF to DWG?
• How does the conversion process work?
• How to convert PDF to DWG with Scan2CAD
• Why you should avoid online converters
• Why use Scan2CAD for PDF to DWG conversion?
• Free Download

What is a PDF file?

PDF, or Portable Document Format, is one of the most common file formats in the world. It has become the standard file format for document exchange due to its wide compatibility across devices. PDF files also popular in the CAD and design industry due to their ability to store both raster and vector elements. It doesn’t matter what hardware or operating system you’re using: PDF files will maintain the same data and formatting across devices.

In comparison to many CAD file formats, PDF has the advantage of being viewable without any specialist software. All you need is Adobe Reader (which comes pre-installed on many PCs), or just a simple web browser.

With small file sizes and the ability to support both raster and vector elements, PDFs are a perfect choice for faithfully displaying the original design with no alterations. You can even add comments to a PDF, making the format a useful part of the CAD workflow. Plus, it’s easy to password-protect a PDF, which makes it easier to manage your files and keep them secure.

What is a DWG file?

DWG (Drawing) is the native file format for AutoCAD, the most popular CAD software on the market. Anyone who works with CAD will be familiar with this format, and if you’ve followed the Scan2CAD blog, you’ll know that we’ve written extensively about this format previously. Created in 1982, the DWG is a proprietary file format owned by Autodesk. This means that developers need a license to use the DWG format in their software.

Due to its status as AutoCAD’s native format, DWG boasts one of the broadest range of features of any vector file type. It supports the full range of vector entities—including elements specific to AutoCAD, such as dynamic blocks—and allows for both 2D and 3D graphics. A DWG file is also usually typically smaller in size than an equivalent DXF file, due to its binary makeup.

The ubiquity of AutoCAD amongst CAD users means that the vast majority of designers will be familiar with this format. Nonetheless, though designed to be used with AutoCAD, there are now many ways to view and edit DWG files with other programs—including Scan2CAD.

Some examples of CAD software that you can use to view and edit DWG files

Why convert PDF to DWG?

PDF is the perfect format for sharing your designs, safe in the knowledge that any collaborators will be seeing exactly what you see, no matter their operating system, hardware or software. However, it hits a major stumbling block when it comes to editing. PDFs are typically very difficult to edit, meaning that they need to be converted to another format in order to be edited.

A further issue is that PDF files can store both raster and vector elements. The raster elements in a PDF are, by nature, not easily editable. In addition, their quality depends on the resolution at which they are displayed. When you alter the scale or zoom in, the image will lose definition and appear blurry and pixelated. Meanwhile, though PDFs can display some vector elements, the range of available entities is very limited. Most vector image editing software is also unable to edit PDF files.

Scan2CAD is able to convert both the raster and vector elements in a PDF file to DWG format, ensuring that you are able to edit the entire file. By converting to DWG, you can also scale the image, and edit and reuse individual elements.

How does the conversion process work? 

The conversion process can be completed in one of two ways: manual or automatic tracing. Each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Manual tracing

Image Source: graphicdesign.stackexchange.com

This process involves tracing over the entire image by hand. This can be done by using a mouse to trace over every line, or by using a tablet and graphics pen to draw over the raster. This process has quite a few advantages. It has the added benefit of human understanding being the driving force behind it—conversion software won’t be able to figure out what a faded line means, and will just ignore it, whereas you have the knowledge of what the drawing should look like. This means that you can work with images of any quality, because you’re familiar with the drawing or you can make a well-informed guess.

There are a few setbacks to this process, however, as it can be very long and strenuous. The more complex the image is, the more time it will take. Plus, despite the higher level of understanding, humans are still rather inaccurate—a computer is efficient and precise by comparison. 

Automatic tracing

This process makes use of raster-to-vector conversion software like Scan2CAD which detects the lines and edges of your raster image and redraws them as vector lines, curves, polygons and other vector entities. It has many advantages over manual tracing: for starters, it is a very speedy process—Scan2CAD takes mere seconds to convert! Meanwhile, OCR tools are perfect for dealing with any text that may appear in your PDF file, and can convert it to editable text.

If you’re at the mercy of tight deadlines, and you’re working with relatively simple raster images, it’s definitely beneficial to make use of automatic conversion software. 

Want to know more? Check out everything you need to know about manual and automatic tracing.

How to convert PDF to DWG with Scan2CAD

If you have a PDF file containing vector information, you won’t have to do much with it. All you have to do is load it into Scan2CAD, where it is automatically displayed as a DXF—you’ll just need to click Save As to convert it to a DWG. 

If your PDF file is a raster, then you’ll have to follow these quick and easy steps: 

• Load your PDF in Scan2CAD. This is exactly like opening a file in any program. Click File > Raster > Load, and select your PDF file.

• Choose your settings. Scan2CAD comes with a range of specialized vectorization settings which deal with specific image types differently. Use the Type menu to select the settings most appropriate for your image. For extra tips, check out our vectorization settings guide. 

• Convert your image. To vectorize your image you can either click:
   : which converts lines, curves and shapes to vectors.
   : to convert raster text to vector text.
   : which converts the entire image (both lines and text) to vectors. 

• And finally, save your PDF as a DWG. Go to the File menu, click Vector > Save As.

Interested in converting to DXF instead? Learn how to convert from PDF to DXF in our ultimate guide. 

Why you should avoid online converters

With the strong demand for conversion, a myriad of online PDF to DWG converters have appeared. Each of them claims to offer totally free conversion with great results, with no need to download any software.

However, it’s important to be wary of what online converters claim. Online conversion tools simply can’t offer the same processing power as a piece of software running locally on your PC could. Without this extra power, online converters end up sacrificing the quality of their vector output, and some online tools use very simplistic methods for converting from raster to vector. The end result is that you won’t be able to properly edit the converted vector image, making it useless in CAD software.

Not only are online PDF to DWG converters usually a waste of time, but they can also expose you to security and privacy risks. For more details, check out our guide to the pitfalls of online file converters.

Security is paramount. As well as avoiding online converters, make sure to steer clear of downloading a Scan2CAD crack—and keep your files totally secure.

Why use Scan2CAD for PDF to DWG conversion?

Scan2CAD doesn’t just convert your PDF to a DWG, it also uses a set of tools to optimize your conversion output.

1. Efficient file management

A single page of a PDF file may contain hundreds of small raster images. Some conversion programs may treat each of these images separately, leaving you with the task of converting each of them and reassembling the page later—an extremely time-consuming and tricky process. Scan2CAD on the other hand, saves each page as a single file, making it much easier to convert and producing optimal results.

If you convert your PDF using Scan2CAD, you end up with one single raster image:

If you convert your PDF in an online converter, you’ll end up with hundreds of raster images: 

2. Batch processing

With the Pro version of Scan2CAD, you can make use of our batch conversion tool—enabling you to convert hundreds of PDFs in a single click!

3. Drawing of CAD arcs and circles

PDF files typically don’t save CAD arcs or circles—they’re usually made up of short lines or Bezier curves instead, which can be difficult to edit. Scan2CAD replaces these entities with true arcs and circles that are much easier to edit. 

The circle on the left was converted by another PDF converter; the circle on the right was converted by Scan2CAD

4. Retains PDF line types

Some PDF files may contain user defined lines, like a sequence of dashes and dots of varying length and order. Some online converters will convert these line types to the same continuous type. Scan2CAD however, identifies these line types, and saves them accurately to your conversion output. 

The PDF converter on the left converted all line types to a continuous type; Scan2CAD on the right, converted all line types to their correct dash types.

Want to find out more? Check out 22 reasons why you should choose Scan2CAD for PDF to CAD conversion. 

Free download

Scan2CAD is the market-leading conversion software, with a primary focus on converting technical drawings like engineering plans, architectural drafts, and site plans to editable vector images. It comes with a range of incredible tools, including a raster and vector editing suite which enables you to edit your image before and after conversion. giving you optimal results. Plus, with Smart OCR, you can train the software to recognize non-standard fonts, and even handwritten text.

Supporting no fewer than 33 file types, and complete with batch processing, Scan2CAD is truly the full package, with flexible licensing and 24/7 support.

For a better idea of what Scan2CAD has to offer, why not try out a free 14 day trial today? Click the button below to find out just how much you can do with Scan2CAD. 

download scan2cad for free here

Want to find out more? Find out why Scan2CAD is the ultimate vectorization software, and what makes it a cut above the rest.

You can either convert from raster to vector manually or using an automated computer algorithm. When converting manually, an artist would need to trace over the raster image using drawing software, a tablet, and a stylus (or even a mouse, if they were incredibly proficient!). Alternatively, a computer programmer can write an algorithm: a set of rules or instructions that a computer follows in order to perform a calculation. Read on to learn how this process works.

To a human, vectorization appears to be a single process. From a computer’s point of view, however, it is a combination of several smaller algorithms, each of which controls a specific part of the process. The software uses these algorithms to analyze the raster image, before creating a vector representation of it. The procedure involves three main stages: pre-processing, processing, and post-processing.

Step 1: Pre-processing

The purpose of pre-processing is, quite simply, to prepare the raster image for vectorization. The type of pre-processing work that needs to be done depends on the type and quality of the input image. Here are a few techniques that the vectorization software employs to produce optimum vector output:

• Reduce color. Vectorization works best when the initial raster image has as few colors as possible. To achieve this, grayscale images are binarized, and all gray elements in the image are converted to black or white pixels. Meanwhile, the software reduces the number of colors present in a color image to the minimum possible.

• Reduce noise. You may not be able to notice the effects of noise when viewing your raster image, but it can have a serious impact on the quality of your vector output. There are many reasons why noise appears in a raster image—especially in scanned images—from the low quality of your original sketch, to paper defects, non-optimal threshold settings, or non-uniform lighting in your scanner. Vectorization software, meanwhile, removes dust, speckles and unwanted spots. Noise pixels are identified by comparing them with the neighbouring pixels—shapes and objects are structured, whereas noise pixels are random and usually smaller in size. Filters use rules to accept or reject the pixel; smarter algorithms can analyze the local pixel neighbourhood and define the filter dynamically.

• Increase threshold. Thresholding involves dividing the shades of gray in an image into black and white pixels. This creates a sharp distinction between a white background and black foreground, making the image easier to vectorize.

Check out the difference threshold levels make to your image! You can include as much or as little detail as you want.

Step 2: Processing

This stage is where the conversion from raster to vector happens. First, the program finds the lines in the raster image, where each line is essentially a chain of pixels. There are two main approaches to “find the line”:

Here’s a comparison between both thinning-based and contour-based methods. Image source: www.loria.fr/en/

Again, the type of method we’d use depends on the type of image. For example, thinning-based methods are very sensitive to noise. Contour-based methods, meanwhile, are more noise-tolerant, but rely on complex matching schemes. Many programs also apply two-step vectorization procedures that combine a few methods. There are also other methods such as orthogonal zig-zag, run-length encoding and sparse pixel tracking.

After the program “finds the line”, the program approximates the lines found into a set of vectors. It creates a vector-based representation using elements like text, polygons, circles, arcs, Bezier curves and lines (including dotted lines, dash-dot lines, arrows and polylines).

Step 3: Post-processing

In this stage, the software seeks to analyze and interpret the vector data. The goal here is to remove noise from the vector model, recognize objects, and recover entities from vector data. There are various goals to achieve in this step, including:

• Filling gaps
• Classifying vectors
• Eliminating false branches
• Rectifying right-angled corners
• Finding the best position for junction points
• Simplifying vectors using polygonal approximation
• Checking for duplicates and removing/merging identical vectors that are lying on top of each other
• Lengthening vectors and combining multiple vectors into a single vector

One example of post-processing: the software converts two lines into a polyline

There you have it! When you convert an image from raster to vector, there’s a whole lot going on in the background—all of which is controlled by pre-programmed algorithms. From a user’s point of view, though, it only takes a single mouse click.

To help solve these issues, users can convert JPG to DWG. As the native file format for AutoCAD, and one of the most popular vector image types on the market, choosing to convert your file to DWG means your image will not only be easier to edit, but that you can work on it collaboratively.

This handy article and slideshow will aim to answer all of your JPG-to-DWG conversion questions, and provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to the process. The best part? You can do all of it completely free. Check out our useful slideshow, or read our ultimate guide for all the details you need to know.

Table of Contents

• What is a JPG file?
• What is a DWG file?
• Why convert from JPG to DWG?
• How to convert from JPG to DWG
• Why you should avoid online conversion tools
• Problems with JPG to DWG conversion
• How to get the best results
• Using Scan2CAD to convert JPG to DWG
• Features offered by Scan2CAD

What is a JPG file?

JPG (or JPEG) is one of the most well-known raster file formats. JPG files have a 24-bit color depth, and use lossy compression, which means that they are typically small in size. This makes them a good choice for digital photography, as a memory card can store images in JPG format than is possible with other formats.

However, lossy compression also means that JPG images degrade in quality when edited. They are particularly badly suited to images with sharp, defined edges—including architectural or engineering drawings.

In addition to these JPG-specific problems, they also suffer from issues that are common to all raster images. For example, it’s impossible to scale or zoom into a JPG file without losing definition, and there is no way to edit individual elements within the image.

What is a DWG file?

With a history stretching back almost 4 decades, DWG (or Drawing) files have become ubiquitous across the CAD industry. Best known as the native file type for AutoCAD, you can now view and edit DWG files using a wide range of programs—including Scan2CAD.

Unlike JPG, DWG is a vector file type, which means that it is made up of paths (straight or curved lines) rather than pixels. DWG files are infinitely scalable and easy to edit. This makes DWG a suitable format for storing technical design data.

DWG is a versatile format: it can store 2D and 3D data, vector entities, maps, and even photos. Essentially, any information you enter into a CAD program can be stored in a DWG.

A range of programs that can be used to view and edit DWG files

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Why convert from JPG to DWG?

• To digitize a hard copy of a drawing: you can scan a drawing (e.g. electrical/architectural plans) into Scan2CAD and then convert it to a DWG to begin editing it in a CAD application.

• For infinite scaling: JPGs, like other raster file types, are made up of pixels, which makes them resolution-dependent. This means that you can’t scale a JPG without a loss in quality. In contrast, DWGs are made up of paths, which are mathematically defined and can be replicated at practically any scale.
  Check out our article covering the differences between raster and vector images for the full details.

• For editing: working with a raster image is a little like painting: you can blend colors to create gradients and transitions, but you can’t edit specific elements of your image—any edits you make will affect the image as a whole. Vector images are completely different: you can easily edit individual vector paths, including changing their color, thickness and position. It’s also easy to copy elements from one DWG file and reuse them in another.

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How to convert from JPG to DWG

There are two options for converting a JPG image to DWG: 

Manual tracing

Image Source: graphicdesign.stackexchange.com

Traditionally, the only way to produce a vector representation of a raster image was to manually trace over the image with vector lines. This involves creating a new vector layer on top of the existing image, then tracing over the lines by hand using a mouse or graphics pen.

This method is still useful, as a human looking at an image will understand what it represents. A computer program, meanwhile, is only able to work off the lines and edges it detects. This means that you can manually trace any image, regardless of its quality. However, the process is extremely time-consuming. As a result, many designers prefer to use a faster solution.

Automatic conversion

When you convert your JPG image automatically, your chosen software will work to detect the lines and edges present in your raster image. It will then redraw these as vector lines, curves, polygons, and other vector entities. Some advanced conversion programs, such as Scan2CAD, can also recognize raster text within an image using OCR (Optical Character Recognition) tools before redrawing it as vector text.

The downside to automatic conversion is that a program can never have the same understanding of an image as the person who created it. The image must be very clear for the process to work well, and the user will still need to undertake some pre- and post-processing work. Nevertheless, automatic tracing can reduce conversion times from hours to just seconds, and can produce great results.

Automatic Tracing: Converting an architectural drawing to a vector CAD format in Scan2CAD

For more information, check out our article covering the differences between manual and automatic tracing, or take a better look at the process by learning how to automatically trace an image.

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Why you should avoid online conversion tools

It might be tempting to simply opt for an online tool to convert from JPG to DWG. After all, they often promise to convert your file fast, with no downloads. But before long, you’ll notice some problems.

First, online converters have strict limits, meaning that you can only convert a small number of files—forget about converting anything with a large file size.

Then, when you actually convert your image, you notice that the result is subpar. Instead of the full range of vector entities, some online converters simply use colored polygons to represent sections of color within your image. Most would have a hard time converting raster text to editable vector text—and even those that can are unlikely to arrange that text into logical strings.

On the left is text converted using Scan2CAD. On the right, you can see an example of text that has been improperly assembled into strings.

Worst of all, choosing an online converter means running a number of security risks. Not only is there the danger of someone else stealing your intellectual property, but you could end up inadvertently downloading viruses or trojans onto your system.

Choosing Scan2CAD means keeping your files safe and secure. As it runs locally, it can offer far more precise and efficient conversions than any online converter—with no restrictions on file size, and the ability to process multiple files at once.

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Problems with JPG to DWG conversion

Whilst automatic tracing can dramatically speed up your conversion, it requires a high-quality image to work successfully. Unfortunately, JPG images can suffer from a number of issues which can hamper your chances of getting optimal vectorization results. Some of the most common problems can be seen in the image below: 

Other problems with JPG images include: 

• Trying to convert the wrong type of image. Whilst automatic tracing is incredibly useful for many kinds of image, it’s important to be realistic about what you can and can’t do using vectorization software. Photos, for example, are not well-suited to conversion. Good candidates for conversion are synthetic images with few colors and clean lines. These include images such as technical drawings, logos and cartoons.

• Compression artifacts. Since JPG files are compressed using lossy compression, they lose quality when edited and saved. This leaves compression artifacts on the image, which are the visible signs of the distortion caused by lossy compression. They make the image appear blurry and undefined. These artifacts make it difficult for the software to detect the lines of the image, making it harder to convert.

• Black and white images being saved in grayscale. The most common use of vectorization software is to convert technical drawings, which tend to be black and white. JPG does not deal well with these images, as it is created to deal with photo-realistic images featuring color blends. As a result, JPG will often try to soften the contrast between the foreground and background, leaving the image blurry, with many shades of gray. As a result, conversion software finds it harder to detect which parts of the image form the foreground and background, making it very difficult to convert.

Failing to address these issues prior to conversion means that your vector output is unlikely to be of a high standard. Luckily, there are some helpful tips you can use to optimize your raster image and improve your conversion results.

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How to get the best results

• Use a better format than JPG. The simplest way to avoid the problems associated with the JPG format is to save your raster image in another format in the first place. As we’ve previously noted, JPG is not a suitable format for drawings, text or solid graphics. For optimal conversion results, Scan2CAD recommends saving your raster image as a TIFF. TIFF offers lossless compression and high resolution, making it perfect for vectorization.

  However, sometimes, the choice of file format might be out of your hands—for example, if a colleague had sent you a JPG image to work with. In this situation, you can take additional steps to improve the quality of your JPG file, and get better vectorization results.

• Scan2CAD offers thresholding tools, enabling you to divide your image cleanly into black and white pixels, eliminating the issues caused by grayscale images and compression artifacts. There are two available thresholding tools in Scan2CAD:
  • Simple thresholding, which applies the same thresholding settings to the entire image, or
  • Adaptive thresholding, which applies different thresholding settings to different parts of your JPG file.
• For most images, simple thresholding should suffice. To access thresholding tools, click on the Load menu, then click Raster Effects > Threshold , and choose either Simple or Adaptive.

• You can also take advantage of Scan2CAD’s range of cleaning tools. These can help combat many of the issues affecting JPG images, including:
  • Fix broken or dithered lines using thicken lines
  • Remove holes or speckles
  • Use the smooth tool to remove rough or “hairy” edges around lines
• For best results, check out our top 10 raster effects to optimize your vector conversion.

Even if you think your image is perfect, you may still miss some hidden issues which could affect the quality of your conversion. Make sure to follow our Raster Quality Checklist for best results every time.

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Using Scan2CAD to convert JPG to DWG

Think it takes hours to convert from JPG to DWG? Think again. With Scan2CAD, the conversion process takes seconds—and it couldn’t be simpler. Plus, you don’t have to worry about being given a generalized conversion. 

Scan2CAD detects the lines and edges in your raster image and redraws them as vector entities such as: lines, polygons and Bezier curves. It also looks at factors like the angle of the curves and line weights. Using pre-programmed variables and vectorization settings, Scan2CAD is able to give you a unique conversion depending on your type of image. For example, if you’re converting an architectural drawing then Scan2CAD will use different settings than if you were converting a contour map. And as we’ve mentioned before, the entire process takes mere seconds to complete!  

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• NEED TO CONVERT YOUR DESIGNS FOR CAD?

  Scan2CAD is the market leading conversion software for CAD. Download your free trial.

  • 14 Day Trial
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Need to convert a different file format? Click here to learn about converting from PDF to DWG.

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Features offered by Scan2CAD

Scan2CAD’s primary focus is the conversion of technical drawings—such as engineering drawings, architectural drafts, and site plans—to usable and editable vector images.

In addition to its innovative conversion tools, it also comes complete with an extensive raster and vector editing suite, so you can fully optimize your image before and after conversion.

It supports no fewer than 33 file types, and offers market-leading OCR software. With batch processing, flexible licensing and 24/7 support, Scan2CAD is the complete package.

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Interested in converting from JPG to DWG? Try out Scan2CAD’s free 14-day trial and make use of its full range of professional features—with no watermarks, no limits, and no obligations.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the TIFF to DWG conversion process. Plus, we’ll show you how you can get the Scan2CAD software to convert your files completely free for 14 days!

Table of Contents

• What is a TIFF file?
• What is a DWG file?
• Why convert TIFF to DWG?
• How does the conversion process work?
• How to convert TIFF to DWG with Scan2CAD
• Why choose Scan2CAD over an online converter?
• Free Download

What is a TIFF file? 

TIFF (or TIF) was originally created in 1986 as an attempt to create a universal image file format for use with desktop scanners. It was a binary format, so images were only available in black and white. Once computer disk space increased, the TIFF format was expanded to accommodate color images. The format now has a 32-bit color depth, which means that it supports over 16 million colors!

TIFF is a raster graphics format, made up of individual pixels. The format makes use of lossless compression, so it can be edited or compressed without any loss in quality. This stands in stark contrast to the JPEG format, which is also popular for use in photography, but which suffers from low quality images.

These benefits of the TIFF format make it the perfect choice for high-quality graphics. In fact, it’s also Scan2CAD’s recommended file format for saving your raster images in order to get the best possible vectorization results. TIFF’s lossless compression ensures that the detail of an image is maintained, making it a good candidate for vectorization. Meanwhile, you’re likely to run into difficulties when converting from JPEG to DWG due to that format’s lossy compression.

That’s not to say it doesn’t have any disadvantages. The high quality of TIFF images comes at the heavy price of a large file size, which can mean that some web browsers don’t support them. 

What is a DWG file?

DWG stands for DraWinG, and is the native file format for AutoCAD, which is the most popular CAD software on the market. Practically everyone who works with CAD will know the format well, and here on the Scan2CAD blog, we’ve already written extensively about the format. First created in 1982, DWG is a proprietary file format from the Autodesk stable of products, which means that developers must have a license to use the format in their software. 

This format stores 2D and 3D data, and supports all standard vector entities including AutoCAD’s more ‘specialist’ entities like dynamic blocks. It’s also a binary file format, so a DWG file will typically be smaller in file size than a comparable DXF file, which is made up of ASCII text.

Though the format is best known as the native file format for AutoCAD, you can also use a wide range of other programs to view DWG files, including Scan2CAD. Check out our guide to viewing DWG files without AutoCAD.

Some examples of CAD software that you can use to view and edit DWG files

Want to find out more? Check out our DWG overview, and our guide to the pros and cons of the DWG file format.

Why convert TIFF to DWG?

While the TIFF format has many advantages over other raster file formats, it still has the same disadvantages that other rasters suffer from: 

• Resolution dependency: if you change the scaling of a TIFF, then the quality deteriorates. You can see this when you zoom into a raster and its pixels become evident. 
• Not easy to edit: rasters are made up of pixels, so you can’t edit individual lines, and any edits made will affect the entire image. 
• Large file size: due to the detailed nature and high resolution of the file format, TIFF files are typically much larger in file size than other image file formats.

By converting your TIFF to a DWG you can gain access to a multitude of benefits associated with all vector files:

• Infinite scalability: vectors aren’t resolution dependent, so you can rescale or zoom in as much as you want, without any loss in quality. 
• Easily edited: entities within a DWG can be edited individually. 
• Reusable: you can take elements from a CAD drawing, and re-use them in an entirely new one. This is useful for when you have hard copy drawings to digitize, or when you wish to take elements from an older drawing and reuse it in a newer design. 

Check out raster versus vector for more information. 

How does the conversion process work?

The process of converting a raster to a vector—known as vectorization—involves tracing over the raster image with vector lines. There are two ways to trace an image: manually or automatically.

Manual tracing

This process involves tracing over the image by hand. You can either use a mouse to trace over every line, or make use of a tablet and graphics pen to draw over the raster. 

Manual tracing can be advantageous, as automatic tracing lacks human understanding. For example, if you have an old hard copy drawing which has faded, a computer wouldn’t be able to trace over the image, as it wouldn’t be able to detect the lines and edges. Since you created the design, you’ll know and understand exactly where the lines should be.

Manual tracing can, however, be a very time-consuming process, and it can be difficult to get to grips with. This is why it often makes sense to use automatic tracing instead. 

Automatic tracing

Automatic tracing makes use of raster-to-vector conversion software, such as Scan2CAD, to instantly convert your raster image. In order to perform this conversion, the software detects the lines and edges of your raster image and redraws them as vector lines, curves, polygons and other vector entities. You merely have to load your image into the program, and you can produce a vector image in just a few clicks.

Still need to be convinced? Check out the image below!

It isn’t as simple as choosing the first—or cheapest—conversion software available. Choose the wrong program, and you could run into trouble. It pays to choose a high-quality conversion program, and get the best possible vectorization results. This will ensure that you have a detailed, usable DWG file, that you can later open and edit using CAD software.

Want more information? Check out our comparison of manual and automatic tracing, for everything you need to know. 

How to convert TIFF to DWG with Scan2CAD

With Scan2CAD, it couldn’t be simpler to convert your TIFF image.

• • Load your TIFF in Scan2CAD. This works the same as opening a file in any program. Just click File > Raster > Load, and select your TIFF.

• • Choose your settings. Scan2CAD has a range of vectorization settings, which are specialized to deal with specific image types. Use the Type menu to select the appropriate settings for your image. 

• • Convert your image. To vectorize your image you can either click: 
     : which converts lines, curves and shapes to vectors.
     : to convert raster text to vector text.
     : which converts the entire image (both lines and text) to vectors.  

Why choose Scan2CAD over an online converter?

If you wanted to convert from TIFF to DWG, you may be tempted to simply head to Google to find a free online tool. These tools promise a number of advantages—free conversion, no downloads, great results—yet sadly, they simply can’t deliver.

For an intelligent conversion and great vectorization results, you need a lot of computing power. It’s for this reason that most conversion programs run as local applications on your computer, rather than in the cloud.

Online converters, meanwhile, simply can’t offer the same quality of service. When you convert a file using an online tool, you may therefore find that it has been converted in a very simplistic manner. Not only will your vector image appear worse in quality, but it will also be much more difficult to edit in CAD software. Worse still, you may be putting your intellectual property at risk by uploading to servers that may not be secure.

There are many disadvantages to using online converters—but more importantly, plenty of reasons to choose Scan2CAD instead. Scan2CAD offers accurate, efficient conversion that’s 100% secure. With Scan2CAD, you can convert any file, regardless of size, and be sure of great results.

Free Download

Scan2CAD is the market leader in conversion, with the ability to convert raster images and PDFs to DWG, DXF, and many other vector formats—but it has even more to offer than that.

Not content to stick to conversion, Scan2CAD offers users the complete package. Its raster and vector editing suite gives you the ability to optimize your image before and after conversion, ensuring that you get the perfect vector output. You can also benefit from Scan2CAD’s incredibly useful batch processing feature, which can automatically convert hundreds of files in just a few clicks! Plus, with Smart OCR, you can train the software to recognize unusual fonts—and even handwritten text.

With Scan2CAD, you can rest assured knowing that you’re using a secure program that will keep all of your CAD files completely safe. Put simply, Scan2CAD gives you more for less. Best of all? You can get Scan2CAD completely free for 14 days. There are no limitations to this trial—convert as many files as you want; no restrictions, no watermarks. Simply click the button below to start your download now.

If you need to convert to DXF, then you need to choose the right conversion software. Enter Scan2CAD, the market-leading DXF file converter. Having been on the market for almost two decades, thousands have already put their faith in Scan2CAD to help get the job done. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to convert to DXF with Scan2CAD, and how to get the software completely free for 14 days.

The Ultimate DXF File Converter

Scan2CAD is a two-in-one solution, which lets you convert from raster or PDF to DXF. The software supports a wide range of raster file types, including (but not limited to) JPEG, TIFF, GIF and PNG.

Converting your image with Scan2CAD takes just 4 simple steps: 

1. Scan or load your raster image
2. Optimize your raster image using the editing suite
3. Convert your raster to DXF 
4. Perfect and make final edits

Scan2CAD’s conversion process makes use of automatic tracing. It detects the lines and edges of your raster image and redraws them as vector lines, curves, polygons and other vector entities. 

Scan2CAD also includes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) which detects and recognizes text in images, and automatically converts them into editable vector text. Scan2CAD also stays a step ahead of other converters thanks to its neural networks. These work in the same manner as the human brain, and can be taught to recognize unusual fonts and even handwritten text. For a full list of all the OCR features available with each Scan2CAD package, check out our OCR details page.

Time-Effective Conversion Process

Once you’ve scanned in the raster image you want to convert—or created it in another program—then all you need to do is load it into Scan2CAD, ready for conversion. After you load the image, it takes just seconds to convert from raster to vector, thanks to Scan2CAD’s one-click vectorization process. To convert, just follow these simple steps:

1. Load your file into Scan2CAD by clicking on File > Raster > Load
2. Choose an appropriate image type from the list of vectorization settings in the Type menu
3. Convert your image! To convert, just click the  button to convert lines, arcs, and curves; click  to convert text; or click  to convert both.
4. Save your image as a DXF. Just click on File > Vector > Save As > DXF.

For a more in depth process, check out how to convert a PDF to DXF, or how to convert a PNG to DXF.

Full Editing Suite

In addition to its conversion capabilities, Scan2CAD also offers users an extensive raster and vector editing suite. There’s no need to use a different program—Scan2CAD can convert and edit images, ready for use in CAD, CNC, GIS and CAM programs!

Users can clean up and optimize images before conversion using raster editing tools, to combat common raster issues such as those in the image below:

Common issues with raster images which can affect conversion

Scan2CAD’s specialized tools are designed to eradicate these issues, and maximize your image to its fullest potential. We advise following our raster quality checklist before any conversion, to ensure that you make the most out of your raster image.

Tip: for a quick and easy guide to the process, visit our list of the top 10 raster effects! 

After conversion, users can perfect their vector image using our suite of vector editing tools. You can cut, copy, paste and move elements in your vector image—or add or delete vector entities and text—and get the best possible results.

Convenient

Scan2CAD is one of the most fully-featured conversion programs on the market. With market-leading vectorization and smart OCR, you can get great results when converting from raster to vector. But that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Scan2CAD also comes complete with a full raster and vector editing suite, enabling you to optimize your raster image before conversion, and add those finishing touches afterwards to get a perfect vector output. Not only that, but you can benefit from our batch processing capabilities to automate conversion for hundreds of files in just a few clicks!

With Scan2CAD, you can rest assured that you’re using a secure program. Online file converters, meanwhile, may promise the earth, but come with a host of security risks and other issues. When you’re dealing with important designs and information, that’s a risk you can’t afford to take. Scan2CAD however, keeps your files safe.

To put it simply, Scan2CAD offers you more for less.

Try It Out For Free

When you’re downloading a new program, it may be tempting to download a cracked copy. However, downloading a Scan2CAD crack can compromise the security of your files and system.

So, is there a 100% secure way to try out Scan2CAD for free? The answer is yes!

Download our free trial and you can make the most of Scan2CAD’s full range of features, completely free for 14 days—with no limits. There are no watermarks, no restrictions—simply download the software and convert as many files as you like. Click on the image below to start your download now!

What is reverse engineering?

Reverse engineering is the reproduction of another manufacturer’s product based on a detailed examination of the product’s construction. This process usually involves taking apart a device to see how it works, or producing 3D images of the original part. It’s possible to reverse-engineer almost anything—a mechanical device, an electronic component, computer software or even organic matter! However, whilst some reasons for extracting design information can be socially beneficial (detecting vulnerabilities, or competitive analysis), other uses of reverse engineering are criminal (creating knock-off software or parts). Make sure, therefore, that you’re acting within the law when reverse-engineering a part.

On the left is a simple part made from sheet metal. On the right, we’ve converted the part into CAD format for reproduction. Image source: inspecvision.com

What you need:

• A simple part you’d like to reverse engineer
• Access to a good quality scanner that can scan the dimensions you need
• A raster-to-vector converter like Scan2CAD
• A CNC machine (or access to a CNC machining service) — check out our guide to CNC kits for beginners for tips!

Bonus Video: How To Reverse Engineer A Tool

In this video, Luke will demonstrate how to take an image of a tool and convert it to an accurate vector outline.

Step 1: Scan the product

A critical element of the reverse engineering process is getting a good scan. Since we’re reverse engineering parts based on a 2D scan, you can only choose parts that have details in 2D. We’re only tracing part outlines here, so this technique won’t work for molded parts with extruding 3D detail. You should also take note of the requirements and limitations of your CNC cutting system. For example, the cut width of the tools in your CNC cutting system may limit the amount of detail you want to reproduce.

This is a Deskan Fast Parts scanner, which can scan parts up to A0 in size, for more niche reverse engineering situations. For the simplest parts, you could even use your regular desktop scanner!

Step 2: Convert image to vector

Once upon a time, this would have been one of the most difficult parts of the process, as you would have had to trace over the image by hand. Thanks to Scan2CAD, it now takes just a few seconds. Simply open your scanned raster image file in Scan2CAD, choose the right vectorization settings, and convert your image in a few clicks! Here’s a quick and easy guide on how to convert your image from raster to vector.

Step 3: Check the vector file

New users sometimes make the mistake of expecting their converted vector image to be the finished article. Before machining your design, you’ll need to spend some time checking and cleaning your vector image. How long this takes will depend on the complexity of your image.

Once your image is cleaned up, save your image type using the CNC file format. This ensures that it can be fed into a CNC machine. If you’re not experienced with CNC, then consult with a CNC machinist, who will be able to advise you on the best steps to take for your design.

Want extra tips on how to convert to vector? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Raster to Vector Conversion! Plus, get great tips on turning your ideas into reality with CNC! Having some trouble? Visit our guide to common conversion problems.