How to Convert Bitmap Into Vector Illustrator

CorelDRAW is one of the most efficient image editing software that helps you convert bitmap into vector with automated tools, but you can also do this manually.

If you have a bitmap and want to convert it into a high-resolution vector image for any of your printing needs, CorelDRAW is one of the best options. It can work efficiently and give the best vector conversion results.

In this article, we will show you how to vectorize your bitmap with the Power trace tool in CorelDRAW

Open CorelDRAW and go to “File” > “Import.”

Browse to the location of your bitmap image file (e.g., JPG, PNG, and BMP) and select it.

Click “Import” to bring the image into your CorelDRAW workspace

Click on the imported bitmap image to activate it. It will be surrounded by a bounding box with handles

There are two main ways to access PowerTRACE:

Property Bar: Look for the “Trace Bitmap” button on the property bar at the top of the CorelDRAW window.

It usually appears next to the information on the object selection and size.

Menu: Go to the “Bitmap” menu and select “Trace Bitmap.”

A window titled “PowerTRACE” will appear.

CorelDRAW offers various tracing presets optimized for different image types.

For simple bitmaps, some standard options are:

Outline Trace: This is a good starting point for simple bitmaps with clear shapes and one colored logos.

Logo Trace: This option can work well for simple logos with solid colors and well-defined outlines.

However, you can also experiment with different presets to see which yields the best initial results for your specific bitmap.

The PowerTRACE window offers various settings you can adjust to fine-tune the tracing process. However, for simple bitmaps, the default settings might be enough.

Moreover, here are some key settings which you can consider while converting bitmaps into vector illustrator.

Colors: You can choose how many colors to use in the traced vector output. Less colors can simplify the vector but might lose some detail.

Corners: Adjust how sharp or rounded the corners of the traced shapes appear in the vector output.

Smoothing: This controls the smoothness of the curves in the traced vector.

The PowerTRACE window features a preview panel that provides a real-time display of the traced vector output.

It helps you to see the immediate effect of your chosen settings, so that you can make some helping you make informed adjustments for the desired vector output.

You can make adjustments to the settings and see the preview update accordingly.

PowerTRACE’s automatic conversion might be challenging, especially for areas with complex details.

You can use CorelDRAW’s shape editing tools to refine the vector output further.

It is helpful for:

Removing unwanted background elements: PowerTRACE may capture background elements you don’t need.

So, you can use the “Pick” tool to select and delete these unwanted areas.

Adjusting anchor points: You can use the “Shape tool” to manipulate the anchor points of the traced shapes for more precise control over their form.

Smoothing curves: The “Smooth tool” helps you to refine and smoothen the curves of your traced shapes.

Once you’re happy with the traced vector output, go to “File”> “Save As.”

Choose a relevant file format for your vector illustration, such as CDR (CorelDRAW native format) or EPS (compatible with various vector editing software).
Give your file a descriptive name and click “Save.”

Both automatic and manual tracing have advantages for converting simple bitmaps.

However, we prefer to use CorelDRAW’s “PowerTRACE” tool for the vector conversion of simple bitmaps.

Here, we are breaking down why powerTRACE can be an ideal choice for converting bitmap image into vector in CorelDRAW.

• Most of the time, simple bitmaps are based on basic shapes such as squares, circles, or lines. So, PowerTRACEexcels at converting these basic shapes into clean vector paths.
• The PowerTRACEtool saves you time by allowing you to trace each shape individually.
• PowerTRACE is a best friend of beginners because it handles all the basic vector conversion tasks, such as tracing shapes, color matching, and basic details.
• However, if you need any further refinement, such as intricate details so that, you can edit them manually, too.

Vector tracing plays an important role in the printing process – from bitmaps to printing products.

By following these article, you can effectively convert simple bitmaps into vector illustrations in CorelDRAW using the PowerTRACE tool, so that you can use it for printing purposes. Remember, for more complex bitmaps, you might need to experiment with different PowerTRACE settings or even resort to manual tracing for optimal results