Artwork & Uploads — files, backgrounds, and vectorizing

1Upload your file

In the Patch Builder's ② Artwork section, drag a file in or click to browse. Accepted formats are PNG, JPG, and SVG, up to 20 MB.

• SVG (vector) — best for logos, text, and anything you'll engrave; it stays razor-sharp at any size.
• PNG — best for full-color UV printing; use a transparent background when you can.
• JPG — fine for photos, but has no transparency.

2Remove the background

If your art has a white or busy background, click Remove Background. It runs entirely in your browser (your file never leaves your computer) and knocks out the background so only your subject remains — ideal for dropping a logo cleanly onto a patch.

3Vectorize for engraving

Laser engraving wants clean vector lines, not photos. Vectorize for Engraving converts a raster image (PNG/JPG) into a crisp black-and-white engrave vector. A live threshold slider lets you dial in how much detail is kept versus dropped — watch the preview and stop when the shapes read cleanly.

4Cut lines & contour

PatchForge draws a cut line around your patch automatically based on the shape you picked in ③ Material & shape. Choose Custom Contour to trace the exact outline of your artwork for a die-cut patch, and use the spacing control to add a margin between the art and the edge.

Toggle Show cut line at the top of the panel to check the border without the art in the way.

Raster vs. vector — the short version

Use vectors (SVG) for engraving and crisp line work; use raster (PNG/JPG) for full-color UV prints and photos. When in doubt for a laser job, vectorize first.