ScanNCut SVG Compatibility
SVG support varies by ScanNCut model generation:
DX Models (SDX230D, SDX330D, DX, DX2)
- + Direct SVG import via Canvas Workspace
- + USB import of SVG files
- + Wi-Fi transfer from Canvas Workspace
- + On-screen editing of imported designs
- + FCM format also supported
CM Models (CM650W, CM350, etc.)
- - No direct SVG support on the machine
- + Can use SVG via Canvas Workspace (convert to FCM)
- + Transfer FCM files via USB
- + Limited Wi-Fi on some models
Using Canvas Workspace
Canvas Workspace is Brother's free design software and the primary way to get SVGs onto your ScanNCut. It's available as a web app and a desktop application.
Sign In to Canvas Workspace
Go to canvasworkspace.brother.com or open the desktop app. Sign in with your free Brother account. If you don't have one, create it - it's free.
Import Your SVG
Click the SVG import icon in the toolbar (or File → Import SVG in the desktop app). Browse to your SVG file and select it. The design appears on the workspace canvas.
Prepare the Design
Resize to your target dimensions, position on the mat, and check cut lines. Canvas Workspace shows the cutting mat grid so you can verify placement.
Transfer to ScanNCut
DX models: Click "Transfer" to send wirelessly, or export to USB.
CM models: Save as FCM → transfer via USB drive.
Direct USB Import (DX Models)
DX-series ScanNCut machines can read SVG files directly from a USB drive:
- Copy your SVG file to a USB flash drive
- Insert the USB drive into your ScanNCut's USB port
- On the machine, tap "Retrieve Data" → "USB"
- Browse to your SVG file and select it
- The design loads onto the machine's canvas
- Resize and position as needed, then cut
Tip: Keep SVG files in the root directory of the USB drive (not in folders) for the easiest browsing on the machine's small screen.
Wi-Fi Transfer Method
The most convenient transfer method for DX models with Wi-Fi:
Setup
Connect your ScanNCut to your Wi-Fi network via the machine's settings menu. Register the machine in Canvas Workspace (you'll need the machine's ID number from the settings screen).
Transfer
Open your SVG in Canvas Workspace, click the "Transfer" button, and select your registered machine. The design transfers wirelessly in seconds.
Retrieve on machine
On the ScanNCut, tap "Retrieve Data" → "Canvas Workspace" to find your transferred design. Select it and proceed to cutting.
SVG Format Requirements
For best results with ScanNCut, your SVGs should follow these guidelines:
- Clean, closed paths - Open paths may not cut correctly. Ensure all shapes have closed outlines.
- Outlined text - Convert all text to paths/outlines before importing. ScanNCut doesn't support fonts.
- Simple structure - Avoid CSS classes for styling. Use inline fill/stroke attributes.
- No embedded images - Raster images inside SVGs won't cut. Use pure vector paths.
- Reasonable complexity - Very detailed designs with thousands of nodes may slow down the machine or cause errors.
SVGs from Clearly meet all these requirements out of the box - clean paths, outlined text, and proper structure for cutting machines.
Troubleshooting by Model
DX: SVG won't load from USB
Check the USB drive is formatted as FAT32 (not NTFS or exFAT). Place the SVG file in the root directory, not a subfolder. Try a different USB drive if the issue persists.
CM: Can't find SVG option
CM models don't support SVG directly. Use Canvas Workspace to convert your SVG to FCM format, then transfer the FCM file via USB.
Design looks different on machine
The machine's screen has lower resolution than your computer. The cut result will match the original design, even if the preview looks simplified.
Wi-Fi transfer fails
Ensure both devices are on the same network. Check that your machine is registered in Canvas Workspace. Restart the machine's Wi-Fi connection if needed.
Material Settings
ScanNCut machines detect material thickness with the built-in scanner, but here are starting points:
| Material | Cut Pressure | Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | 0 to -1 | 3 |
| HTV | 0 to -1 (mirror!) | 3 |
| Cardstock | 0 to +2 | 2 |
| Sticker paper | 0 to +1 | 3 |
Always do a test cut first. Pressure settings vary by material brand and thickness.