Glowforge - Issues with File size or scale

Are you having trouble with SVG files scaling or printing incorrectly from your Glowforge Laser printer?

Problem: You’ve recently tried to upload an illustrator file to the Glowforge workspace. When you do - the file isn’t appearing in the right size or scale. Similarly, you may have uploaded a file, cut it, and been confused when the pieces aren’t fitting together!

It is likely an Adobe Illustrator option that’s at fault. Don’t worry, there is a very easy fix.

The issue is that Adobe Illustrator has a feature that automatically enables your designs to be “responsive.” This implies that Illustrator does not designate width or height. This enables it to be scaled for use on websites, etc. For lasercutting, especially with a Glowforge, we want our designs to have specific dimensions. To achieve this, we want to ensure that our SVGs are “UNresponsive".”

When exporting or saving your design as an SVG, you will see these dialog boxes. Be sure that “responsive” is deselected as shown below:

SVG file save dialog box

SVG export dialog box

Adjust those settings and you should be all set to print your files without issue!

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Alternative search terms:

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