The first step is to import the bitmap image into CorelDraw. This is done by clicking “File” in the top menu bar and then “Import” and selecting the design from your computer. In order to convert a bitmap image into a vector, you must then trace the design by clicking “Bitmap” in the top menu bar and then choosing a tracing tool. There are three primary tracing tools used by CorelDraw: Center Trace, Quick Trace, and Outline Trace. Center Trace and Outline Trace are simpler methods that work best with simpler artwork. For a more complex piece of artwork, Outline Trace is likely to be the most effective. Under Outline Trace there are multiple options based on the type of image being converted, including ClipArt, Low Quality Image, and High Quality Image. Select the one that best describes the design you are converting.
CorelDraw will likely prompt you to decrease the size of the bitmap, which you should accept because it can later be resized without issue after it has been converted. Next, the tracing tool window will open. In this window there are a lot of options to help you get the most accurate tracing of the design. These options include deleting the background, adjusting the smoothness, adjusting the amount of fine detail, and more. Because this window has a preview of the traced design, you can see in real time how any adjustments you make will affect the finished product. Once you are satisfied with the look of your vectorized design, hit “Ok” at the bottom of the tracing tool window.
The new, vectorized image will be placed directly over the top of the existing bitmap image on your canvas. You can click and drag the vectorized image to see the bitmap image below. Delete the bitmap image below and replace the vectorized image onto the canvas. The next step is essential: save the image. A vector image in CorelDraw can be saved as a number of different file types, including .CDR (CorelDraw’s vector file) and .PDF. You should keep your bitmap image as a backup in case something goes wrong, like noticing later that part of the artwork did not trace correctly. However, the resulting vector file should be used as your source file, as it can be resized to print any design. The vector file is also easier to color separate for screen-printing.
Vectorizing a bitmap image with CorelDraw is a simple but important process for all product decorators to know. Luckily, it isn’t a terribly difficult process, thanks in large part to the user-friendly CorelDraw. If you have any questions about converting bitmap images into vectors using CorelDraw, please do not hesitate to contact us.
