Vector Resources

Vectors are machine-readable images used in pen plotting, laser cutting, CNC routing, and other machine-driven machines. Not sure what a vector is? See Vector or Raster? for more info.

Desktop Programs

• Inkscape is my personal favorite: free, easy to use (once you get the hang of vector creation) with built-in bitmap-to-vector conversion
• Adobe Illustrator is the industry standard, but expensive. You have access as a student—see the photo teacher for details
• FlatFab allows you to create 3D images that can be cut on a laser

Web Programs

• Vectr.com is a simple tool for vector creation, with the option for tracing
• Cuttle is made for laser cutters specifically, but is a solid tool for creating vectors online
• SketchUp is a 3d modeling tool, but can be used for vector creation

Web Art Generators

These are great for the drawing machines or laser, but will take some post-processing (possibly in Inkscape) for use in the vinyl cutter

• Plotterfun takes an image and renders it as a plottable SVG. Lots of algorithms!
• Slopes renders a stacked wave plot similar to that famous Joy Division album cover
• Drawingbots.net plenty of tools
• revdancatt's image generators
• Triangle divider
• UJI

Image Sources

• Dimensions.com has a staggering array of clean vectors to download
• Template Maker and Boxes.py for all your box needs. Great for the laser or vinyl cutter
• Deck in a Box is similar to Template Maker, but is tailored for desktop game organization
• Flower generator and beetle generator by bleeptrack

Vector Artists/Inspiration

• Jason Webb
• Manolo Gamboa Naon
• Checkout the #plottertwitter hashtag on Twitter

Generators That Require Coding

• Snowflakes in Python, by Michael Fogleman

See also

• Generative Art
• Open Source Software
• Awesome Plotters list