While working on design projects, there exist two methods to transform varied image file formats into SVG format. Undertaking the task manually offers the most control over the final product, although it can be time-consuming. Employing a converter can be more beneficial when time is of the essence or to boost output. So, which free SVG converter for Cricut is the optimal choice to sustain project momentum while preserving quality?
I have worked with a lot of converters before. My best experience so far has been with the Online Converter, which can convert up to 2GB of files and is great for professional work. My second pick is the Cloudconvert, which converts more than 200 file formats to SVG. Since I use my tablet for quick Cricut designs, Inkscape is handy because it is optimized for tablets.
Here is a breakdown of my best SVG converters and more that do a plausible job.
Best Free SVG Converter
1) Online-Converter
When looking for an SVG converter, the first thing to look at is the speed, and Online-Convert is a fast option that has helped my productivity over the time that I used it. I did not have to register to use the Converter, making it a chance you can use it on the fly without any bureaucracies involved.
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Using the Online Converter is as simple as dragging JPG or PNG images into the Converter to get an SVG file in return. The Converter has simple commands for a more simplified workflow. I can use an SVG converter to add certain effects to make my SVG file have a more desirable outcome.
The one limit I have experienced with most offline and online SVG converters is how low they cap the limit of how many files you can convert in a day. Online Converter lets you convert up to 2GB of files to SVG files. To increase my workflow, I can merge files for conversion instead of dealing with one file at a time. This feature saves me a lot of time and is one of the tools every architecture student should have up their sleeve.
Online-Converter is a robust tool that not only converts the typical jpg or png file formats that we are used to but can convert audio files, too.
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2) Cloudconvert
Cloudconvert is a personal favorite because I can not only convert images to SVG but other formats as well. While most other tools share this feature, Cloud Convert is more popular because it supports more than 200 formats, which is an excellent tool for any designer. Cloudconvert is an online SVG converter, and I do not have to worry about downloading an app to use it.
Image Source: dreamstojourneys.com
Cloud conversion solves a fundamental problem that takes up a lot of time and space for designers: storage. Once I convert a file to SVG, I can export it directly to my Google Drive account for storage. This feature is not limited to Google Drive, as it works with other platforms such as Dropbox and OneDrive.
With its impressive features, Cloudconvert would not be great if it produced low-quality files. The Converter does not reduce pixels when dealing with an image file, making it the perfect platform for making designs meant for professional work like posters and billboards.
Cloudconvert allows me to save entire web pages into a PNG or JPG file. While this has nothing to do with SVG files, I love a one-stop shop for everything I need to do.
Cloudconvert has both free and paid versions, with the free version doing a good job already. However, the free version of the image converter has a limit to the number of files you can download in a day.
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3) Inkscape
As a professional designer, Inkscape is my go-to SVG converter. The SVG file converter has various features that any designer would find convenient. The features include an image tracing tool, text support, rendering, and fill. I can use Inkscape to not only convert but also create and manage vector files.
The best part of Inkscape is importing files from Adobe Illustrator or CorelDraw, which are programs most architects and designers use.
Image Source: pngwing.com
Inkscape not only focuses on the design but also the purpose of the scalable vector graphic file. For instance, I can optimize design files for use on a tablet, website, or app, a feature not common in most other tools.
Inkscape uses SVG as the primary file format, and I can comfortably use the tool in a Mac, Windows, or Linux operating system. The primary SVG file type does not limit InkScape from reading both raster and vector graphics files.
When converting images, Inkscape gives me two options. The first option is to manually trace the image I want converted to an SVG file. Furthermore, I can use a trace bitmap feature that uses an algorithm to trace out images, which saves me a lot of time. However, it is not as accurate as going the manual way.
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4) PNG to SVG Converter
When working on designs in shared offices, there is a need to keep your designs close to your chest until you are done working on your project. For such instances, I use the JPG to SVG converter, which deletes both the uploaded and downloaded converted files, giving me the privacy I need.
Image Source: techwebtopic
JPG to SVG converter is easy for anyone, and the best part is converting multiple files simultaneously. This Converter does not have much to it, but the fact that it leaves no trace behind gives me comfort.
There are other versions of JPG to SVG, like the PNG to SVG, which do a similar job. So, do not worry about someone else bumping into your designs regardless of the format you are converting.
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5) Convertio
Convertio is one of the tools that is not entirely free, but the free version has a lot of value to offer. While the free version gives me a limit of up to only ten files, the juice is worth the squeeze. Convertio allows me to convert RAW files.
Image Source: behance.net
With over 45 formats to convert, Convertio is good enough for anyone up to quick, creative projects. The good news is you will not lose the files you have converted, as they stay in the cache for recovery later. I only use this feature on my home computer, not an office desktop where anyone can access my designs.
While Convertio is free, you can upgrade at a small fee and enjoy better features. The one reason I would not use Converter is the inability to upload large files for conversion. Furthermore, certain features are only accessible in the premium version. However, the free version is good enough for me.
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6) Cricut Design Space
Cricut Design Space is a notable mention for a tool I use to create vector graphics because it is optimized for Cricut. The tool works well for a Cricut ecosystem, just like Adobe Illustrator would for Adobe Express tools. Furthermore, the SVG converter lets me perform basic editing on the vector file, like rotating, resizing, or changing the colors in my designs.
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The downside of Cricut Design Space is its limitations in the features it has compared to dedicated converters. Furthermore, I cannot convert SVG files to many other formats.
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Tips When Using SVG Converters
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When working on a project, my workflow determines whether I will be productive or not. One thing that takes a lot of time and energy is when files are not organized properly. To improve my workflow when using SVG converters, here are some tips I use;
a) Code Validation
I have to validate the XML code to ensure it adheres to the specifications of my design. I can use an SVG code validator for this task.
b) Backup
When working on files for my design projects, I have to back them up for many reasons, including future reference. However, we always focus on the final design when talking about backup. In my case, I always try to back up my designs before converting them to SVG files. This gives me something to fall back on should I need the file for a different design, reference, or correction.
c) Notes
When working on a small design for your projects, you can skip taking notes. However, as an architect who works in one of the best architecture firms in the world, I have to take notes of the elements, dimensions, structure, size, and any special features of my design for future reference that may involve clients.
d) Compress the SVG File
Once I download SVG files for storage, I have to compress them using an SVG compression tool to avoid running out of storage space. Since I only deal with high-quality SVG files, I have to use a compression tool that maintains the quality of the file.
e) Testing
Converting a file to SVG format is not the surest of knowing I have what I need. To be certain about the viability of the downloaded file, I can simply expand the image file to see how it behaves. Furthermore, I can use the above validator to see the design specifications.
f) Conversion Method
I have to know whether I will trace out a design manually or digitally. This helps me choose the appropriate tool for such actions. Manual conversion may take a longer time than digital conversion.
g) Colors, Style, and Likeness
Whenever I am working on client work, I have to ensure the design looks similar to the original file issued by a client. I try to keep colors as accurate as possible when working on designs.
What to Look for When Choosing an SVG Converter
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i) Formats Supported
Certain converters support up to 200 file formats, while others support less than 40. The number of formats supported shows how robust a converter is. I try to acquaint myself with the different raster and vector graphics formats.
ii) Conversion Speed
Once I have ascertained that a conversion tool can convert my file, the speed is what will truly impact my workflow. While I have the best laptop for Cricut to aid my production, I have to intentionally choose a fast tool for my design. The faster the tool can convert my designs, the more productive I can be.
iii) Multiple Files
A tool that can convert multiple files at once saves me a lot of time when working on multiple designs. Converting multiple files can take longer in certain converters, so it is vital to look at speeds when choosing a converter.
iv) Cost
While looking at free SVG converter options, I appreciate the advantages of paid versions of the different converters. Converters are billed differently, with some billing annually and others monthly.
v) Licenses
Using unlicensed tools for professional work can have legal repercussions, which is why I prefer paying for converters whenever I can. To be sure about licenses, I try to keep to the paid versions.
vi) Output Quality
Since we are dealing with vector graphics, the output has to be of quality standards. The colors need to be accurate if your design demands it.
vii) User Interface
Working on a design on the fly requires a simple approach without a need for a steep learning curve. An easy UI not only saves time but increases productivity, too.
viii) Operating System Compatibility
If I can use one Converter across operating systems like Windows, iOS, or Linux, then there is a higher chance I will prefer it over others.
ix) Data Protections
Certain converters do not cache designs after upload and download, while others do. I use converters that do not save designs when working from the office to keep my work safe.
x) Reviews
Reviews can not only help me know which converters to keep away from but also which ones to use for different situations.
Frequently Asked Questions About SVG Converters for Cricut
1) Is there a free SVG converter?
There are many free SVG converters. Furthermore, paid converters have free versions with limited features but work just as well as most free SVG converters.
2) What is the best program to convert an image to SVG?
For professional design work, Inkscape is an excellent choice with various features. However, it takes longer to learn compared to Cloudconvert, which one can use on the fly.
The best SVG converter will depend on your design needs. For instance, if you want to convert from your phone, you will likely use a different converter when converting from a Linux OS. Some SVG converters bundle files to convert them simultaneously, while others can not.
3) How to convert SVG without losing quality?
If you want to keep the quality of your design, then you should convert images without compressing them. When saving the designs, validating the code ensures a converter keeps the image quality.
Final Thoughts
SVG files create limitless design opportunities when using Cricut and save time to develop designs from scratch. However, not all files I get from clients are in SVG format; sometimes, it is uneconomical to subscribe to a converter. In such situations, free converters come in handy.