# Trace To Svg

> Trace bitmap images (PNG/JPG/WebP) into clean SVG paths using potrace/mkbitmap. Use to convert logos/silhouettes into vectors for downstream CAD workflows (e.g., create-dxf etch_svg_path) and for turning reference images into manufacturable outlines.

- Skill: `modbender/trace-to-svg` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 3 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds add modbender/trace-to-svg`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/modbender/trace-to-svg/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: modbender (https://skillmd.com/u/modbender)
- Updated: 2026-09-09
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/modbender/trace-to-svg

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# trace-to-svg

Convert a bitmap into a vector SVG using `mkbitmap` + `potrace`.

## Quick start

```bash
# 1) Produce a silhouette-friendly SVG
bash scripts/trace_to_svg.sh input.png --out out.svg

# 2) Higher contrast + less noise
bash scripts/trace_to_svg.sh input.png --out out.svg --threshold 0.6 --turdsize 20

# 3) Feed into create-dxf (example)
# - set create-dxf drawing.etch_svg_paths[].d to the SVG path `d` you want, or
# - store the traced SVG and reference it in your pipeline.
```

## Notes

- This is best for **logos, silhouettes, high-contrast shapes**.
- For photos or complex shading, results depend heavily on thresholding.
- Output is usually one or more `<path>` elements.