Milling know-how

STEP, DXF or SVG: which format for which job?

step2gcode accepts three file formats, and the choice is simpler than it looks: it depends on where your design comes from and what it is supposed to become.

Laser SVG or DXF directly: to the laser tool →

The quick decision

  1. 3D part from CAD (Fusion 360, FreeCAD, Onshape): export as STEP. Pockets, holes and depths are already in the model and get detected automatically.
  2. Flat parts, signs and cut-outs from 2D programs (QCAD, LibreCAD): save as DXF and enter the milling depth in step2gcode.
  3. Logos, lettering and graphics (Inkscape, Illustrator): upload as SVG, it is processed like a DXF as vector contours.
  4. Engravings: choose a V-bit and use the engraving mode, the paths are traced directly.
  5. Several parts from one sheet: use "Arrange multiple parts" and let DXF, SVG and STEP parts with quantities be nested space-efficiently on the sheet.

STEP: when the third dimension matters

A STEP file contains the real solid with all depth information. step2gcode detects pockets, inner contours and holes directly from the geometry, so you never enter depths by hand. For anything designed in CAD, STEP is the first choice.

DXF: the 2D classic

A DXF only describes contours in the plane; you specify the depth when generating the G-code. In return, the path from drawing to cut is short, and with 2D direct mode the paths can be traced directly without detours, ideal for engravings and simple through-cuts.

SVG: from graphic to milled part

SVG is the format of the graphics world: logos, lettering, icons. step2gcode treats SVG files like DXF vectors, so you can mill or laser straight out of Inkscape without a detour through a CAD program.

By the way: works for lasers too

DXF and SVG contours can not only be milled in step2gcode but also cut and engraved in laser mode, with dedicated material presets for power and speed.