What is the difference between an SVG, JPG, PNG and DXF file? How to download and import them into Cricut Design Space? Here’s everything you need to know!
JPG, PNG, SVG, DXF … do all these acronyms give you nightmares? It’s totally normal! At first, we don’t understand anything! But you will see, after this short tutorial, you will be a real pro!
Pixels vs Vectors
First, before explaining the definitions, you should know the difference between an image made up of pixels vs an image made up of vectors.
Pixels are small dots that make up the image. If you enlarge this type of image too much, you see small squares. These are the pixels. You cannot, therefore, enlarge the images composed of pixels without affecting the quality.
Vectors are mathematical calculations that generate an image. Vector images can be enlarged as desired without affecting the quality of the drawing.
Definitions
Pixel-based files:
- JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group): the word to remember in there is “Photographic”. These are image files composed of pixels. It’s usually the format used when taking photos with your camera.
- PNG (Portable Network Graphics): They are also pixels files, but of better quality. This type of file often allows you to have images with a transparent background. Which is not possible with the JPG.
Vector-based files:
- DXF (Drawing Interchange Format): Format created for exchanging vector drawing files. It does not retain colours and operations performed on objects. Like for example, a hole in an object will become an independent solid circle in a DXF file, which is not ideal.
- SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics): The best format for cutting in Cricut Design Space. And like the name says it, you can enlarge it as much as you want. And the drawing is exactly as the creator designed it.
The DXF is especially useful for those who have a Silhouette cutting machine and who only have the free version of the Silhouette Studio software. Because, as of now, only the paid version allows you to import SVGs.
For Cricut Design Space, you can import SVGs for free which is very interesting. So you don’t have to worry about DXF files if you’re a Cricut user.
Import SVG files in Cricut Design Space
There is nothing better than seeing “live” how to import files. So in the video, you will see:
- How to access NeliDesign’s library
- How to download free cut files (if you don’t have your password to access the library yet, click here)
- How to import SVGs in Cricut Design Space
- The difference between a JPG, DXF and an SVG imported into Cricut Design Space
I hope I managed to enlighten you! If I forgot anything or have any questions, leave me a comment below or even better, join my Facebook group.
PS: Don’t forget to pin it!
