Converting images for use with cutting machines

You can convert the images you find on this site and many other images into many kinds of files by going to various free websites.  Right click on the image you want to save.

Here is the list I’ve compiled so far for various things, but what you’ll need is at the bottom: CONVERTING IMAGES.  Sometimes it’s necessary to convert an image before uploading it into your cutting machine if the quality isn’t what you’d like it to be. 

People have different opinions about which websites are better, and some work better than others, depending on the image, image quality, if it’s black and white or color, etc.  I usually use the first one, which I highlighted in green.  It gives more options to choose from, and sometimes I save multiple variations and splice them together in my workspace program if it’s the only thing I can do.  If I don’t get good results, I try something else. 

So, here’s what you do: 

  1. Save the image onto your computer as a photo.
  2. If the image has a background that you need to remove, you can use removebg.com. 
  3. Open one of the websites and upload your image.
  4. Once you’re satisfied with the image, download it and save it.
  5. Now you can upload it into your cutting machine as an SVG.

*If you're doing this on your phone instead of a computer, there are apps for this as well!

One thing to note is that if you use the Convertio.co (don't put an "M" on the end) website, you’ll have to choose from a dropdown menu the file type as Vector, then from there you’ll choose SVG. Then choose "convert".  Some of these websites let you choose what file types you convert to and from.  

This list is always growing, and I update it often!   these sites offer free, as well as paid designs.  some require you to sign up for free, and I have done so without any risk or issues.  I haven't had to put in any credit card information, and they have all been safe to download from. 

(I haven't updated all the color dots yet)

PHONE APPS FOR PHOTO EDITING, ETC. 

(I have an iPhone, so I'm not sure if all these same apps are available for other phones, but there will be similar ones)

Here's a fun project with vinyl: 

SPIRALBETTY.COM

  1. Go to SPIRALBETTY.COM and upload your image.
  2. Adjust to how you want it. Select black & white option.  (downloads as a JPEG)
  3. Click download.
  4. Go to an SVG converter (CONVERTIO.CO works best for these kinds of files) Check SVG to see if it looks how you want it to.
  5. Open your cutting machine workspace and import SVG file.
  6. Cut
  7. When weeding, the part that comes off with the throw away part is the start of the spiral part to pull.

LOOK AT THIS website! 

On here you can make your own boxes, bags, shapes, envelopes, etc.  

www.templatemaker.nl

-Creates PDF file or click “more options.” 

-Save as “perforated SVG” if making something that needs to have a score line