Converting PNG to SVG

Today we are going to talk about how and why you would need to convert from PNG to SVG. So, the first things we need to know are what are these two types of files?

What is a PNG File

The PNG file stands for Portable Network Graphic. Sounds posh? It is not actually. It is basically one of the most common used file types to store images with transparent backgrounds. Software like Adobes Photoshop and GIMP are just two that use this format. Infact you will find most graphicand design software allow you to save your files with this format.

What is a SVG File

SVG stands for Scalable Vector Graphics. This really speaks for itself. The SVG can be scaled up without any image loss. If you were to try this with another file type, for example JPEG, your file would pixelate. The SVG File is used in many places. For us though in the Cricut world it is used to design files. As well as this we use it within Cricuts Design Space.

Converting PNG to SVG

So now your asking why and how we can do this? Well, lets start off with the why. Anyone who has used Cricut’s Design Space knows the best type of file to use in this software is a SVG. Why? Because once it is inside Design Space you can make it as big or as small as you like without losing quality. This is very important as any imperfections in the SVG will show up when we send the image to the mat for cutting. Secondly, its much easier to manipulate a SVG file in Design Space than any other file format as thats how the software was made.

Now we are going to try and answer the second question, converting PNG to SVG. So you have made your design in your choosen software. For me that would be Photoshop. You have saved it as a PNG file. So far so good. But now you need to convert it to SVG. Sounds difficult? Actually it is not. All you need is the right program to do it. Sounds costly? Definitely not! I am going to show you the program that I use online and it is totally free!

Convert PNG to SVG

As I have just said this is the easy part. The software I use is online and is called Convertio. I use this because not only does it convert PNG to SVG but it will also convert many other formats which I find useful. I have personally found it very easy to use. All that is needed, is for you to drag your PNG file over and choose what you want to convert it to. In this case, of course it will be SVG. Next, click the convert button and wait for the magic to happen!

So, in conclusion the process of converting PNG to SVG for use with your Cricut Design Space is not that difficult. You now have some background information as to what the file formats are and more importantly why to convert them. You have the free software to be able to do but more importantly you now have the skills and knowledge. So whats stopping you? Go for it!