How to Trace a Logo in Inkscape
Convert a raster logo (PNG, JPG, BMP) to a clean SVG vector in Inkscape using the built-in Trace Bitmap tool (Potrace). No paid software needed.
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Supports PNG, JPG, BMP, WEBP up to 5MB
Trace Bitmap in Inkscape  Step by Step
Import your logo PNG into Inkscape, then open Path > Trace Bitmap. Choose Brightness Cutoff for B&W logos or Colors for multi-color logos. Click OK and move the traced vector off the raster original.
- File > Import your logo PNG
- Path > Trace Bitmap
- For B&W logos: Brightness Cutoff (threshold ~0.5)
- For color logos: Colors, 2–8 color scans
- Click OK, drag the traced SVG away from the original
- Delete the original raster image
Optimizing the Traced Logo
After tracing, simplify the paths (Path > Simplify, Ctrl+L) to reduce node count. Remove any background rectangle. Save as Plain SVG for maximum compatibility.
- Path > Simplify (Ctrl+L)  reduces nodes without losing shape
- Object > Break Apart if logo has disconnected pieces
- Edit > Select Same > Fill Color to select areas by color
- File > Save As > Plain SVG
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Trace Bitmap mode for a logo in Inkscape?
Brightness Cutoff for B&W logos. Colors (with 4–8 scans) for multi-color logos. Edge Detection for logos with gradients.
Why does my Inkscape trace have too many nodes?
Lower the Speckles threshold and use Path > Simplify afterward to reduce nodes while keeping the shape clean.
Can I trace a JPEG logo in Inkscape?
Yes  JPEG works, but PNG is better because JPEG compression adds artifacts that trace as extra noise paths.
How long does Trace Bitmap take in Inkscape?
Seconds to a minute depending on image size and number of color scans. Large, complex images with 16+ colors may take longer.
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