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      Using Image Trace in Lightburn for CO2 Lasers

      Lightburn's Image Trace feature allows you to outline an image and convert it into a vector graphic suitable for laser engraving. This article explains how to use the Image Trace function in Lightburn, covering the key features and settings.

      Importing an Image to Trace

      1. Import the Image
        • Select a black-to-white scale image for better highlighting of Image Trace functions.
        • Ensure the image is visible in the Cuts and Layers window, labeled as an image.

      Accessing the Image Trace Tool

      1. Three Ways to Access Image Trace
        • With the image selected, use the top menu bar: Tools > Trace Image.
        • Use the shortcut keys: Alt + T.
        • Right-click on the image and select Trace Image from the dropdown menu.

      Using the Image Trace Wizard

      1. Viewing the Trace

        • The trace image wizard displays your graphic with purple lines indicating the vector lines Lightburn has traced.
        • Use the Fade Image button to dim the image and highlight the purple vectors if needed.

      2. Zoom and Pan

        • Use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out.
        • Click and hold the mouse wheel to pan within the trace image window.

      Adjusting Trace Settings

      1. Cut Off and Threshold

        • These slider controls determine the range of values Lightburn will outline with vectors.
        • Cut Off: Adjusts the inclusion of values from black (0) to white (255).
        • Threshold: Sets the midpoint of the grayscale values to be included.

      2. Selecting a Portion to Trace

        • Click and drag inside the trace window to create a selection box.
        • Use the corners to resize the box as needed.
        • Click outside the box to reset it.

      Additional Trace Settings

      1. Ignore Less Than

        • Ignores pixel counts smaller than the set value, useful for low-quality or busy images.

      2. Smoothness

        • Adjusts how aggressively the trace smooths lines. Lower values create a more jagged look, while higher values smooth points and corners.

      3. Optimize

        • Reduces the number of nodes or points in the graphic without altering the overall design, enhancing efficiency.

      4. Show Points

        • Displays all nodes in your vector trace, aiding in fine-tuning the optimized parameter.

      5. Sketch Trace

        • Helps capture more detail in hand-drawn images by considering pixel neighbors and other factors like lighting and pen stroke fading.

      6. Clear Boundary

        • Removes any boundary box drawn in the trace window.

      7. Delete Image After Trace

        • Automatically deletes the original image after tracing, simplifying the workflow.

      Conclusion

      By following these steps, you can effectively use the Image Trace feature in Lightburn to convert images into vector graphics for laser engraving. For further assistance, refer to Lightburn documentation or support channels. Happy engraving!