Importing Custom Images into Eagle

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Method 2: Import DXF

AutoCAD developed the Data Exchange Format (.DXF) to allow for sharing of files between AutoCAD and other programs. Lucky for us, newer versions of Eagle (7.7.0+) can also import DXF files. We can use that to add custom artwork to a layer.

Note: We'll be using Inkscape to prepare the DXF for importing. Also, note that this method results in an outline of the shape, not a complete fill.

Download Inkscape

If you don't already have it, download and install the latest version of Inkscape. You will need it for this method.

Draw or Import Image

Draw, download, import, etc. your desired image. Make sure it is a single color (we'll use black) and saved as a vector graphic (e.g. SVG). In this example, we'll import an image made with Adobe Illustrator and saved as an SVG.

Note: If your original image is a bitmap, you can also use Inkscape's bitmap tracing tool to make a vector graphic.

Change Image to Standard Size

Click the select tool (F1), and select Edit > Select All in All Layers (Ctrl + Alt + a).

Click the button to lock the height/width ratio.

Change the units to mm, and change height to 100.

Go to File > Document Properties..., select Resize page to content... drop down, and click Resize page to drawing or selection.

Massage Nodes

Convert the object to a path and select nodes:

Path > Object to Path (Shift + Ctrl + c)
Object > Ungroup (Shift + Ctrl + g) - Press this a number of times to make sure all objects have been ungrouped
Select all nodes with the path editor tool (F2, Ctrl + a)

Add interpolated nodes and flatten beziers (we want straight lines for the polygon):

Extensions > Modify Path > Add Nodes - Leave defaults, click Apply, and close the pop-up window
Select the nodes again (F2, Ctrl + a)
Extensions > Modify Path > Flatten Beziers - Leave defaults, click Apply, and close the pop-up window

Cut Closed Loops

Any shapes that have a closed loop or a "hole," you'll need to cut them (Eagle doesn't know how to create a polygon with a hole in it).

Draw a shape, such as a rectangle, that divides the hole.

Hold Shift, and select both the rectangle and your image. Select Path > Division (Ctrl + /). Repeat this process for any closed loops in your image, such as donuts, outlines, and letters like 'o' and 'd'. You should end up with a number of paths that make up your image.

Select all nodes with the path editor tool (F2, Ctrl + a). Click Path > Break Apart (Shift + Ctrl + k).

Export as DXF

Click File > Save As, give your file a name (make sure to include the .dxf extension!), and select Desktop Cutting Plotter (R13) (*.dxf) from the Save as type: drop-down menu. Click Save.