How To Vectorize a PNG Logo with Inkscape

If the only copies you have for your logo are rasterized formats like PNG and JPG, then you won't be able to reap the benefits of having a vector SVG file, like infinite scaling and being able to edit your logo in the future. In that case, you'll need to generate a vector copy of your logo using vector design software, and that's what I'll be demonstrating in this video.

In this tutorial I'll be demonstrating 2 different ways to convert PNG logos to SVG files using Inkscape. Both of these methods are ideal for beginners and first-time users of Inkscape.

Video breakdown...
00:00 Intro
00:57 Document setup
01:19 Import your logo
02:48 Auto tracing method
05:36 Manual tracing method


Intro song: "In Da Mood" by Combustibles, used with written permission

[Ceares]

Thanks so much! You saved me weeks of frustration trying to learn inkscape for one logo. As a freehand artist who finds the whole "drawing with shapes" thing headache inducing it's a relief to know I can just draw the dang logo and convert it.

[sheaulle]

Big time saver: Instead of using the dropper tool multiple times to select the same color, you can first copy a shape with the fill and stroke style/colors you want. After that, you can paste these colors to other shapes by selecting them and Ctrl + Shift + V (Edit - Paste Style). I use this all the time.
Video is great as always.

[pmdinaz]

I knew what a vector file was when I had to submit plans for my addition on the house. I had no idea what it took to create them.
Now I find myself needing svg files. I have many personal images I want to transfer via engraving. I'm pretty sure you just solved my conundrum! Thank you, so much!

[jeremysart]

You just saved me hours if not days of learning a new program and skillset. I am designing a medal and belt buckle for a marathon and needed to vectorize my artwork for the engraver. Thank you.

[elementgypsy]

Thanks. I shyed away from learning to digitise for embroidery. After years with old sewing machines I bought my first new sewing maching with embroidery over a year ago.
I played around with inkscape for the past year. So glad I found it. If I don't use a new software often, I forget what I learned, so it is slow going and I hired graphic artists to digitise my ideas.
Now I am more motivated as I made a few simple things with the inkstitch extension!
The only way I have to learn is by the internet as I don't know anyone who knows how to do it.
Great info and you explain well with a good voice and intelligence!

[staceyacosta]

total noob here. even had to dl Inkscape. with your tutorial i was able to create exactly what i needed. THANKS!

[RalphMayhewPhotography]

This was incredible man! You taught me from nothing to doing it for my design work in literally 10 minutes. So thank full!

[miirami]

This is incredible! I love how you just drop important things like which keys to use so we don't have to look up all those small things. That's attention to detail. Can't believe this is free!

[foliomagi]

Nick my dude you are saving my life. I've been in somewhat dire financial straits for the past year, but your tutorials have enabled me to earn a little bit more money than I otherwise would have. Thanks for freely giving out so much information

[camillecirrus]

Not only did i learn that i can vectorize GIMP images, but also got a headstart on how to use Inkscape itself.

Amazing video, as always.

[soniccinos]

Legendary guide sir!!! I'm really new to Inkscape and I'm falling in love with it's capabilities!!! Right now I'm using this feature do make 3D forms based on vector images!

[qwertyproductions]

Hey Nick! I am a self-taught freelance graphic designer and your videos are very helpful in my work. You are an inspiration for many people out there wanting to start graphic designing, for free but don't know how to. Inkscape is free to use and your tutorials are the best and your thumbnails are attractive. I would love if you make a video on how to design epic thumbnails like yours that grab attention. Thank you.

[lai]

This is the most simple explanation that I can understand… teaching is a skill🙏 thank you man.

[Windrunner]

I’ve been trying to clean up my larp’s logo for months and i can finally do it myself. Great video.

[BanthaBoi]

This fixed a very random and specific issue I was facing with blender. 2 hours later and finally!! Thanks

[HATL]

Thank you so much for this amazing channel. I'm learning Inkscape since I can't afford Illustrator, and I was curious if I won't be learning the optimal thing. But after I watched your beautiful comparison video and saw some of your work, I'm so determined to follow your tutorials. Thank you for these "gems" that you're providing to Inkscape users out there.

[benpenph]

Since then til now I'm a huge fan of you and inkscspe more power for years to come ❤

[biankanagy]

Thank you so much!
I'm gonna study Mediadesign next year and I'm currently working on my portfolio. I started using Inkscape a few days ago and I thought I'd never get the hand of it. I only watched a few of your videos but I was finally able to make my own logo that I think looks cool. A week ago I've thought I won't be able to do that in the near future. Thank you for every single video!!! You have no idea how grateful I am

[v-dub]

This is an excellent tutorial. I am a beginner to this program and needed to know how to manually copy non-vector files. Where have these “training wheels” been all my life? B-spline is a game changer! 😀 Thank you!

[Mrkle]

A really well paced and explained tutorial - thank you.