Why Your Glowforge Needs Clean SVG Files
The Glowforge is the most popular desktop laser cutter in the world, capable of cutting and engraving over 1000 materials with incredible 0.001" precision. But laser cutting demands clean SVG files with precise vector paths - any jagged edges or overlapping lines will show in your final product.
With VectoSolve, you can convert any image into a laser-optimized SVG with clean cut paths and smooth curves. Whether you're cutting Proofgrade plywood for ornaments or engraving acrylic signs, our AI ensures every vector path is laser-ready for your Glowforge.
Convert Images to Glowforge SVGs in 3 Steps
From photo to laser-ready file in under 30 seconds
Upload Your Image
Drag and drop any PNG, JPG, or photo of a hand-drawn design. Logos, artwork, and sketches all work.
AI Creates Your SVG
Our AI removes backgrounds, traces clean vector paths, and creates a precision SVG optimized for laser cutting.
Upload & Laser
Upload the SVG to the Glowforge app, set your material, and press the glowing button. Perfect cuts every time.
Best Materials for Glowforge SVG Projects
The Glowforge cuts and engraves an incredible range of materials
Proofgrade Plywood
Glowforge's signature material with automatic settings via QR code. Perfect for ornaments, signs, puzzles, and keychains in maple, cherry, or walnut.
Acrylic (Cast & Extruded)
Clear, colored, and mirrored acrylic for signs, earrings, cake toppers, keychains, and LED light bases. Cuts with polished edges.
Leather
Vegetable-tanned and chrome-tanned leather for wallets, journal covers, bookmarks, coasters, and personalized gifts.
Draftboard
Affordable MDF-like material perfect for prototyping, stencils, templates, and inexpensive production runs of cut designs.
Anodized Aluminum
Engrave (not cut) anodized aluminum for dog tags, business cards, nameplates, and industrial labels with permanent markings.
Cardboard & Paper
Corrugated cardboard and heavy paper for packaging prototypes, paper crafts, pop-up cards, and architectural models.
Glowforge SVG FAQ
What SVG files work with the Glowforge?
The Glowforge works with standard SVG files. Upload your SVG to the Glowforge app and it automatically separates cut lines (vector paths) from engrave areas (filled shapes). VectoSolve creates clean SVGs with precise vector paths optimized for laser cutting.
What is the difference between cutting and engraving SVGs?
In SVG files for Glowforge, vector strokes become cut or score lines, while filled shapes and raster images become engrave areas. The Glowforge app color-codes different operations so you can assign cut, score, or engrave to each element.
How do I convert images to SVG for my Glowforge?
Upload your image to VectoSolve and our AI creates a clean SVG in seconds. Download the file and upload it to the Glowforge app. The SVG is optimized with clean vector paths for precise laser cutting and engraving.
Can I use Proofgrade materials with any SVG?
Yes! Proofgrade materials have a QR code that the Glowforge camera reads to automatically set power, speed, and focus. Any well-made SVG file from VectoSolve works perfectly with Proofgrade materials.
What is the maximum cut area on a Glowforge?
The Glowforge Basic and Plus have a cutting area of approximately 19.5 x 11 inches. The Pro model offers the same bed size but adds a passthrough slot for materials up to 20 inches wide and virtually unlimited length.
Can the Glowforge engrave photos?
The Glowforge can engrave photos using raster images (PNG/JPG). For photo engraving, you typically use raster files rather than SVGs. SVGs are ideal for cutting outlines and engraving vector artwork with clean, sharp edges.