How to convert Bitmaps to Vector art - Scanned Images - Logos - BMP to SVG PS or EPS

Vector line art is the standard used in programs like Illustrator, Inkscape and Corel Draw. Files are very small and can be enlarged or reduced without effecting line quality or file size. Vector art is also east to edit, allowing you to change an objects shape, color, outline color and outline thickness.

The standard way of converting Raster (bitmap) images to Vector art is by using a Trace program. Inkscape, Corel Draw and Illustrator have Trace programs built in. The trace program in Inkscape is very good indeed. Inkscape is Open Source (Freeware) .

What if you want to save time and don't want to wait while one of the bigger programs load up? The solution is CR8tracer based on potrace which is the trace module also used by Inkscape. CR8tracer is very small and fast to load, it converts bmp raster files to Vector files extremely quickly and allows you to save the converted file as an EPS, SVG or PS file. These files can then be opened in a Desktop Publishing program like Scribus that does not have a Trace option and edited more if need be.

I have a folder on my hard drive called 'Tracing' where I place Images to be converted. I often use my scanner to scan Logo art sent by customers. Or I have to deal with poor quality jpeg images emailed by my customers. Sometimes the only logo I can get is by copying one from the customers web site. CR8tracer only opens bmp files so I use Fotosizer (read my Hub on this excellent little product) to quickly convert any jpeg files I have to deal with.

There are Quality options in CR8tracer as well as the ability to change the color of the artwork. Its worth spending a little tile experimenting with the output settings to get the best results for you. The converted files are rally tiny (Refer to Image of bmp file and converted eps file).

You can download this great little program by visiting the developers web site.

Trace away...and may the Graphics be with you - Cheers