Best Practices For Importing And Working With Svg Files In Blender

What SVGs are and Why Use Them

SVG stands for Scalable Vector Graphics. SVGs are vector image files that use XML-based text format to describe images using geometric vectors, shapes, text and effects. Being vector-based, SVGs can scale to any size without losing quality. This makes them ideal for print, web and 3D workflows.

Compared to raster image formats like JPG and PNG, the key benefits of SVGs for 3D workflows are:

• Small file size – Just a text file describing shapes, versus storing pixel values.
• Infinitely scalable without losing quality.
• Editable shape parameters and effects.
• Integrate smoothly into CAD-like workflows.

These properties mean SVGs are highly versatile for not just importing existing 2D art into Blender, but also for procedural generation of geometry from code for generative 3D design.

Preparing SVGs for Import

Since SVGs store images as editable code rather than rasterized pixels, they can become complex with many intricate shapes and effects all piled into a single file. This can confused Blender when importing. Some pre-processing in vector editing software first is recommended.

Simplifying Complex SVGs in Inkscape

For editing SVGs, free and open source Inkscape is highly recommended. When opening very complex vector art SVGs, consider doing the following simplification steps:

1. Break apart compound paths with many boolean ops into separate object layers.
2. Ungroup stacked groups and arrange objects into clear hierarchies if possible.
3. Convert strokes into filled shapes.
4. Remove any embedded bitmaps or raster effects.
5. Save out as a “Plain SVG” with limited feature support for maximum compatibility.

Exporting as Plain SVG from Illustrator

For graphic designers working with Adobe Illustrator, avoid issues by exporting SVGs with the following recommended settings:

1. In the Save As dialog, choose “SVG” format and check “Use Artboards”.
2. In SVG Options, select “SVG 1.1” for older format support.
3. Enable “Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities” to allow further edits.
4. Set Decimal Places to 5 digits of precision maximum.
5. Check “Output fewer elements” to simplify shapes.

The resulting simplified SVG file will import smoothly into Blender.

Importing SVGs into Blender

Once SVGs designs are simplified and exported, importing them into a Blender project is straightforward. This unlocks a wide range of vector-based modeling capabilities.

Using SVG Scalable Objects

In Blender’s 3D View, use Shift + A or the Add Menu to add a new “Scalable Vector Graphics” object. Then browse to select your exported SVG file. The vector shapes will then load into view, fully scalable and editable.

Controlling Render Visibility

By default, SVG objects may be hidden in renders. To make them visible, select the object and open the Object Properties panel (with N). Under Viewport Display, change Display As from Wire to Textured.

Working with Imported SVGs

Once imported, the editable SVG objects enable a range of unique 3D design workflows. Converting to meshes then allows application of materials and using them with modeling tools.

Converting to Mesh and Applying Materials

To convert an SVG to an editable mesh object, select it and use Object > Convert To > Mesh in top menu. Then materials and textures can be assigned for rendering via the Material Properties panel.

Using SVGs as Stencils and Booleans

Imported SVGs can be used directly as stencils for other modeling operations. For example, they can cut holes or split faces precisely when used as custom boolean objects.

Animating SVG Parameters

Because SVGs store resolution-independent shapes mathematically, their geometric attributes can be keyframed and animated just like any other object. Location, scale, rotation and stroke width are all animatable parameters.

Tips for Avoiding Common SVG Pitfalls

Due to their complex vector structure, SVGs can sometimes cause issues in Blender workflows. Here are some top troubleshooting tips.

Handling Transparency and Meshes

SVGs handle transparency and overlapping shapes differently than 3D meshes. This can cause rendering artifacts sometimes when converting SVGs. Work slowly and preview renders often.

Troubleshooting Import Failures

If an SVG import fails entirely, the file may have overly complex features not supported in Blender SVGs. Try the simplification process again, removing gradients, patterns and clipping paths which can cause issues.

Example SVG Import Workflow

Here is a step-by-step walkthrough guide for importing an SVG logo file and using it as the basis for 3D text.

1. Download and install Inkscape, then open the complex logo SVG.
2. Use Inkscape tools to simplify, convert strokes, remove raster bits, and export as Plain SVG.
3. Open Blender, delete the default cube, and instead add a Scalable Vector Graphics object.
4. Locate the exported logo SVG file and import into the scene.
5. With logo SVG object selected, convert it to a mesh (Object > Convert To > Mesh).
6. Add a Subdivision Surface modifier to smooth the mesh topology.
7. Apply a metallic material with complementary lighting to finish.

The imported vector logo can now be manipulated, animated, used in booleans, and integrated as part of more complex 3D designs!