Use Inkscape to Add Inner and Outer Contour to a Hollow Bitmap Image

Updated Aug 31,2023

In this tutorial, we will learn how to add an inner and outer contour to a hollow bitmap image using Inkscape. While XCS does not support this feature, Inkscape provides a simple solution before importing the image into XCS. By adding inner and outer contours, the image will have a more defined and polished look, which is especially useful for design projects and logos.

1. To start, open Inkscape and import the hollow bitmap image. From there, select the image and go to the "Path" menu and choose "Trace Bitmap."

2. Adjust the settings and apply.

3. After that, an identical image will be created as a vector image and overlap the original one. You need to click it and drag it to separate them.

Next up, click the “x” button under the “Fill” option.

Also, select the plain blue button under the “Stroke paint” option.

Drag to overlap the two images.

Select the vector image first, and then press the “Ctrl+ )” on the keyboard to create the contour. See result below:

You can press the “Ctrl+ )” a few more times to adjust the distance between the image and the contours.

When you get the best results after adjusting them, it’s time to export the image design as a “Plain SVG format file”.

After that, import the file to XCS. You can see there are two elements on the canvas.

Once complete, save the image and import it into XCS for engraving or scoring. With the addition of inner and outer contours, the image will stand out and have a more professional appearance.

Please note that

You cannot adjust the settings when you multi-select vector and bitmap images at the same time.

Bitmaps can only be engraved.

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