Vector Resources
From TSAS Library
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
- Start with Cuttle! We pay for a pro account, so use your TSAS email to log in. It is made for laser/vinyl cutters specifically, but is a solid tool for creating any vectors online
- Vectr.com is a simple tool for vector creation, with the option for tracing
- 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