ImageToSVG

Convert a Pencil Drawing to SVG

Turn hand-drawn pencil sketches into clean SVG vectors. Scan, boost contrast, and vectorize for use in Cricut, laser cutting, embroidery, or illustration.

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VTracer vectorization + SVGO optimizationPrivacy protected

Scanning Your Drawing for Best Results

Scan at 600 DPI in grayscale or B&W mode. High resolution gives the vectorizer more detail to trace. A flat, well-lit scan with consistent pencil pressure produces the cleanest SVG.

  • Scan at 600 DPI minimum
  • Use grayscale or B&W scanner mode
  • Draw with consistent pressure — avoid very light strokes
  • Erase any smudges before scanning

Converting Scanned Drawing to SVG

Open the scan in GIMP or Photoshop. Convert to black and white, increase contrast (Curves or Levels), then use Threshold to make lines pure black. Upload the cleaned PNG to imagetosvg.com in B&W mode.

  • GIMP: Colors > Curves — pull blacks down, whites up
  • GIMP: Colors > Threshold — all pencil becomes pure black
  • Optional: Median filter to smooth out grain
  • Upload clean B&W PNG to imagetosvg.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What DPI should I scan a pencil drawing at for SVG conversion?

600 DPI gives plenty of detail for clean vectorization. 300 DPI is acceptable for simple line drawings.

Can I photograph a pencil drawing instead of scanning?

Yes — use a flat, well-lit surface with no shadows. Increase contrast in your phone app before uploading.

Why does my pencil drawing SVG have broken lines?

Increase contrast and apply Threshold in GIMP so all pencil lines become solid black before vectorizing.

Can I convert colored pencil drawings to SVG?

Yes — use Color mode in imagetosvg.com. Each pencil color becomes a separate SVG layer.

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