Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
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Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
Hi guys/gals,
I have recently purchased a vinyl plotter to do my own graphics and logos for my new cycle shop. It saves me going to local firms and paying for them on a regular basis.
I have got my logo in an EPS file, and have no problem printing this out, and have done a few onto garment vinyl and done some t-shirts.
My question is this:-
How can I get a photo, and then convert it into something my plotter can cut. I can get the picture to look just as shadow image (If that makes sense?!) How do I "trace" the image to get lines that a plotter can follow to cut??
I am currently using corelDRAW X4 demo version, and SignGo for plotting with.
Any advice appreciated and recommendations for software I can download?!?
Re: Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
I don't want to come off like an *** here, but there is a reason there are sign shops, and there is a reason there are cycle shops. I don't tear down my bike, and try to fix the brakes just because I own a wrench. The is alot of art and layout work to get designs to cut and look correct.
Re: Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
If you have a threshold tool in Corel, use that. I'm a photoshop guy so I dont know Corel, but if you set the threshold you can create black and white "outlines" like the photo you posted, which, if high enough resolution, will be traceable for the cutter.
EDIT: sorry, didn't realize you DO have the image already - Motoskin posted the solution below.
Last edited by Pwear; November 18th, 2009 at 04:38 PM.
Re: Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
Quote:
Originally Posted by adivito
I don't want to come off like an *** here, but there is a reason there are sign shops, and there is a reason there are cycle shops.
There's also a reason there are forums where people with questions come to ask those who have helpful information. If you don't want to help, don't post - but don't come on here and put down those who are looking for advice. Get over yourself.
Re: Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
Quote:
Originally Posted by adivito
I don't want to come off like an *** here, but there is a reason there are sign shops, and there is a reason there are cycle shops. I don't tear down my bike, and try to fix the brakes just because I own a wrench. The is alot of art and layout work to get designs to cut and look correct.
Yeah cheers for the that, I presume you are a true KEYBOARD WARRIOR!! And congrats, you did come off like a true A**E
As stated, thats the point of a forum, to SHARE information. I presume you've never actually asked advice from someone or asked a question to further your knowledge? Maybe you are gifted and were born knowing everything required for your life???
Plus, whats wrong with business enterprise and using initiative.
If you have no positive comments, please keep yours to yourself in future.
Thanks to the serious posters, keep the advice coming, and I can trade back bike repair advice, it's a two way street!!!
Re: Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
What brand cutter do you have? Does it have registration mark sensor? Otherwise cutting the outline without registrtion mark sensor will be hit and miss.
__________________
Luis CorelDRAW macro author Macro Website
Re: Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Lnfortun
What brand cutter do you have? Does it have registration mark sensor? Otherwise cutting the outline without registrtion mark sensor will be hit and miss.
Not really if you actually look at the art and read the post.
Re: Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
I know that it has to be vectorized but it has to have reference points to cut the outline. I have done it with my other cutter that has no registration mark sensor but I have to make large allowance so that the image is not getting clipped.
__________________
Luis CorelDRAW macro author Macro Website
Re: Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
I'm not sure about the registration mark sensor? It has a little red optical sensor on the carriage. It's a Refine EU-MH721. I know it's not an expensive machine, but for what I am using it for, it does a good job, I have bought some better blades for it to help improve performance.
Re: Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut?
Quote:
Originally Posted by MotoskinGraphix
Ooooppps....I thought you were going to use heatpress vinyl and not transfers.
Yes that's right, heat press garment vinyl is what I am using. Just trying a file that motoskin sent me, looking good so far! Just need to master it myself!!
This is a discussion about Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut? that was posted in the Vinyl Cutters (Plotters) and Transfers section of the forums.
Help, how do I convert an image to something my plotter can cut? 
