How to Use SVG & PNG Files

A complete beginner’s guide to understanding and using digital design files with your cutting machine.

New to digital crafting? This guide explains everything you need to know about SVG and PNG files, what they’re used for, and how to work with them on your cutting machine.

Understanding File Formats

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphic)

Best for: Cutting machines (Cricut, Silhouette, Brother)

What it is: A vector file that can be resized infinitely without losing quality. Perfect for cutting because it contains paths that cutting machines can follow.

Used for: Vinyl cutting, HTV (heat transfer vinyl), paper cutting, stencils

PNG (Portable Network Graphic)

Best for: Printing, sublimation, print-and-cut projects

What it is: A raster image file with a transparent background. Great for printing on various surfaces.

Used for: Sublimation printing, print-and-cut, digital designs, mockups

DXF (Drawing Exchange Format)

Best for: Silhouette Studio Basic Edition users

What it is: A universal vector format that works with Silhouette without the Designer Edition upgrade.

Note: All our files include DXF format

EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)

Best for: Professional design software (Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW)

What it is: A vector format for advanced editing and professional printing

Which Format Should I Use?

If you have a Cricut:

Use SVG files for cutting. Cricut Design Space works best with SVG format.

If you have a Silhouette:

• Designer Edition: Use SVG files

• Basic Edition: Use DXF files (SVGs won’t work)

If you’re printing (sublimation, iron-on transfers):

Use PNG files at 300 DPI for best quality.

If you’re doing print-and-cut:

Use PNG files to print, then let your machine cut around them.

Step-by-Step: Using SVG Files

For Cricut Users

1

Download and unzip your files

2

Open Cricut Design Space

3

Click “Upload” then “Upload Image”

4

Browse and select your SVG file

5

Click “Save” then “Insert Images”

6

Resize and arrange on canvas

7

Click “Make It” to cut

Pro Tip: If your design has multiple colors/layers, select all and click “Attach” to keep them aligned.

For Silhouette Users

1

Download and unzip your files

2

Open Silhouette Studio

3

Click “File” → “Open”

4

Select SVG (Designer Edition) or DXF (Basic Edition)

5

Browse and open your file

6

Resize and arrange as needed

7

Click “Send” to cut

Using PNG Files for Printing

PNG files are perfect for:

  • Sublimation: Print on sublimation paper, then heat press onto mugs, t-shirts, etc.
  • Printable iron-ons: Print on iron-on transfer paper
  • Print-and-cut: Print the design, then have your machine cut around it
  • Digital use: Social media graphics, invitations, mockups

Print-and-Cut Instructions

  1. Open your PNG file in Cricut Design Space or Silhouette Studio
  2. Print the design on your home printer (use good quality paper)
  3. Load the printed paper onto your cutting mat
  4. Let your machine detect the registration marks and cut

Software Compatibility

Works With:

  • Cricut Design Space (free)
  • Silhouette Studio (Basic or Designer Edition)
  • Brother Canvas Workspace (free)
  • Adobe Illustrator (professional)
  • Inkscape (free alternative)
  • CorelDRAW (professional)
  • Most cutting machine software

Need Help?

Check out our other helpful resources:

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