If you want to know how to export a design from Adobe Illustrator, it’s easy! Illustrator is an industry standard vector graphics program that we highly recommend for decorative projects. While Illustrator isn’t free, the software comes with a powerful toolset and may merge seamlessly into your workflow if you’re already an Adobe user.
The best part? You can save the native .ai (Adobe Illustrator) file by pressing Ctrl+Shift+S and choosing Save As Type: Adobe Illustrator (*.AI). No special steps or add-ons are required. We’ve found that native .ai files produce the best exports from Adobe Illustrator, so please do not export a DXF from Illustrator. Detailed guidance is available here: Adobe Illustrator Tutorial & Video
After uploading your .ai file for an instant quote, check the part preview and verify that the overall dimensions are correct. All files need to be at 1:1 scale in either millimeters or inch units with no intersecting or duplicate paths.
Take a look at our Illustrator tutorials and file setup checklist for more tips on preparing cut-ready designs!
In Summary
We prefer you to save your Adobe Illustrator files in the native .ai format. Please do not export as a DXF.
