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
SnazzyMaps allows you to create a laser cut or engraved maps simply

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
Flower generator and beetle generator by bleeptrack

Image Sources

Dimensions.com has a staggering array of clean vectors to download
Google search for
```
filetype:svg + your query
```
should yield good results, just make sure they're free to use!

Box/3D Generators

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
MakerCase is a simple box generator
CNC/Laser Panel Notebook for joinery inspiration
Joinery takes .svg patterns and adds tabs, holes, flaps, or finger joints to pull it all together

Vector Artists/Inspiration

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

Generators That Require Coding

Snowflakes in Python, by Michael Fogleman