How to Use SVG Files in LightBurn
To use an SVG file in LightBurn, import it with File > Import (or drag it onto the canvas), check that it came in at the correct size, then assign each colour to a cut or scan layer with the power and speed for your material. LightBurn reads SVG natively, so most files just work — the two things to watch are the import size and which layer each shape lands on.
Step by step
- 1
Import the SVG
Use File > Import or drag the SVG onto the LightBurn canvas. It appears as editable vector shapes.
- 2
Check the size
Select all and read the dimensions box. If it imported at the wrong size, set the correct width and height (lock the aspect ratio).
- 3
Assign cut and scan layers
Click each colour swatch to put shapes on a layer. Set cut layers to Line mode and engrave/fill areas to Fill (scan) mode.
- 4
Set power and speed
Enter the power and speed for your material on each layer. Test on scrap if you are unsure.
- 5
Frame and run
Use Frame to confirm placement on the material, then start the job.
Getting the size right
The most common SVG-in-LightBurn issue is the wrong import size, because SVG units can be ambiguous. After importing, always check the dimensions and set the real size. If a particular SVG keeps importing wrong, re-export it with an explicit physical size, or use a DXF, which carries units more reliably.
Cut layers vs scan layers
LightBurn uses colour-coded layers. A cut (Line) layer follows the path and cuts through; a scan (Fill) layer rasters back and forth to engrave a filled area. A stencil is usually a single cut layer; a design with engraving plus a cut outline uses one fill layer and one line layer. Assign each shape to the right layer before running.
Fixing common problems
Open paths that will not cut as expected can be closed in LightBurn (Edit > Close Path or Auto-join). Overlapping or doubled lines (from a messy trace) cut twice — clean the file before importing. If pieces would fall out, the SVG needs bridging first. A clean, bridged, correctly-sized SVG avoids almost all of these.
Try it yourself
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Make a LightBurn-ready fileFrequently asked questions
How do I import an SVG into LightBurn?
Use File > Import or drag the SVG onto the canvas. It comes in as editable vector shapes ready to assign to cut or scan layers.
Why does my SVG import at the wrong size in LightBurn?
SVG units can be ambiguous. After importing, set the correct width and height in the dimensions box, or export the SVG at an explicit physical size, or use a DXF.
How do I make part of an SVG cut and part engrave?
Put the cut shapes on one colour layer set to Line mode, and the engrave areas on another colour layer set to Fill mode. Assign power and speed per layer.
Why are parts of my design falling out?
Floating islands with no bridges. Add bridges connecting enclosed pieces to the main body before cutting so the design holds together.