Prepare your Design File.
Ready to get your parts made? Before you upload your DXF or DWG file for an Instant Quote, let’s make sure it’s set up for success.
Follow this quick checklist and you’ll be sending us a clean outline of what you want made, in no time.
Use Vector Software.
Start by creating your 2D design using a vector-based software program like AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator, or other CAD programs. Vector files are precise. Every curve and line tells our machines exactly where to cut or bend your part.
Draw at Actual Size (1:1).
Design your part at the true size you want made. For example: If you need a 4-inch part made, draw and Save it as 4 inches. That way, what you see on-screen will match what comes off our machines.
Close all Curves and Lines.
Make sure your outline is fully connected with no gaps. Open ends or stray lines can confuse the cutting software. Think of it as drawing a complete outline without lifting up your pen.
Keep It Clean. No Duplicates or Overlaps.
Double-check that your file has no duplicate lines, overlapping curves, or extra points hiding in your design. These can cause the machine to cut the same area twice, slow down processing, or misread your part’s boundaries.
Simplify your File.
Before doing a final Save, remove any extra geometry that isn’t part of the actual shape — like construction lines, notes, dimensions, or Title Blocks.
The outline of your part is all we need!
Save it out as a DXF or DWG File.
When you’re ready, Export your File as a DXF or DWG. These are the formats that our machines can read. While raster files (JPG, PNG, PDF) may look just fine on-screen, they’re made of pixels. And pixels don’t cut cleanly.
Your file should contain only the outline of your part, scaled 1:1, with closed curves, and no duplicates.
That’s when you’re good to upload for an Instant Quote.
Want us to do it for you instead?
Our Design & AutoCAD Support can give your project a quick review and will always give you a clear estimate before any added work begins. We’ll ensure clean, precise 2D files that run perfectly on our machines. Talk to us about your project.
