wizard path trace

Matthew Hale

MGF, Master Grumble Framer
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does anyone have experience importing from Adobe Illustrator to Wizard's PathTrace utility? I'm using Illustrator CS4 and I've tried many ways to tweak the export settings and can't get anything to open in PathTrace.
 
If you are trying to import the .ai file as a path, I can't help you there. The workaround that should work for you is to save it as a rasterized image file (like a jpeg) and import that. You will then be able to trace the shape with PathTrace.

James
 
If you are trying to import the .ai file as a path, I can't help you there. The workaround that should work for you is to save it as a rasterized image file (like a jpeg) and import that. You will then be able to trace the shape with PathTrace.

That's what I'm trying to avoid - all that tracing.
 
You need to export the file in DXF format, which you can then import into PathTrace.

Tried that. the .dxf doesn't open on the Wizard end. I followed the instructions on the Wizard knowledge base tutorial:

1) Open Illustrator and open the desired design.
2) Click File > Export.
3) Enter the desired file name in the File Name field.
4) Select AutoCad Interchange File (*.DXF) for the Save as Type.
5) Select AutoCad Version R13/LT95, Number of Colors 8, Raster File Format BMP, and Outline Text.
6) Click Save.
7) The file will export to the selected file name.

I've tried selecting other versions with no success. I can't select BMP, Illustrator only gives me PNG or JPEG options and I've tried both.
 
Theoretically, you are supposed to be able to open and use DXF files in PathTrace, but I've never gotten it to work. It is my understanding that there are a number of different types or "flavors" of DXF files, so it may need to be a specific one. If you have choices in your Export dialog, try saving as every different type of DXF you can, and then try each with Wizard. Let us know what you find out.
:cool: Rick
 
Mathew I would suggest contacting Dani at Wizard.
 
i ended up doing it the hard way. it's subtle (if you can call a 40x42 red suede mat subtle) but i like the debossed effect. it took a while, but i think i spent more time trying to figure out an "easier"way than i did doing it the hard way.
 

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absolutley awseome.
Since you have that saved. Now all you need is 4-5 more orders for the same design ....
Try this~ take it back into path trace and make it into a .06 v-groove wonder how that would look? Then save it as Aero Vgroove.
 
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Two and a bit years later and I'm not seeing anyone posting any solutions... I've tried a bunch of different DXF formats and save configurations with no luck. I won't be calling Wizard due to their yearly retainer they require before helping and I believe I called once before regarding this and was simply referred to this page. If the link doesn't work for some reason, the path on the Wizard info/help page is as follows. Supporting Articles -> PathTrace Manual -> Illustrator to DXF PathTrace.

Any help, advice or websites anyone can point to would be great!
 
This old thread might help to clarify the DXF issue with Path Trace...
http://www.thegrumble.com/index.php?threads/bevel-changes-in-deltacad.81464/#post-1048224

I have provided DXF files in selected versions to several Wizard users, and as far as I know, they have been able to use them in the Wizard software.

After you contact Wizard about this, please report the answers here. Those of us who make custom CAD files for others would like to have confirmation of compatibility.
 
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In my humble opinion Path Trace is the worst feature of the Wizard software and I was never able to make head nor tail of it. My "work around", if you can call it that, was to take those jobs to a specialised matt cutter who was fairly close to my shop. Saved me a lot of time and frustration.
 
I'm hoping to revisit this process soon. once we upgrade the hardware, i'll upgrade to wizards new "trace" program and maybe that'll smooth things out.
 
This old thread might help to clarify the DXF issue with Path Trace...
http://www.thegrumble.com/index.php?threads/bevel-changes-in-deltacad.81464/#post-1048224

I have provided DXF files in selected versions to several Wizard users, and as far as I know, they have been able to use them in the Wizard software.

After you contact Wizard about this, please report the answers here. Those of us who make custom CAD files for others would like to have confirmation of compatibility.
Thanks for the link, Jim. I've tried saving from Illustrator but I've never used Corel Draw. I'll try to get my hands on a copy for trial sake. Has anyone got a link to an archive of cut art or the like? I'm sure there are some out there, just not sure what search terms to use and the ones I've tried have come back blank.
 
Andy and I never had success importing cut files from other programs into our Path Trace, but I know others have done so in the past. Importing a picture to trace over works well, however.

Path trace works well on its own, as does its replacement (the product that comes their their new CMC s/w is just called TRACE). They're really not much different from doing it in a program like Corel Draw. It just takes a bit of patience to trace over it and make sure everything is joined properly. We have used all 3 in our shop, with the CMCs.
 
Andy and I never had success importing cut files from other programs into our Path Trace, but I know others have done so in the past. Importing a picture to trace over works well, however.

Path trace works well on its own, as does its replacement (the product that comes their their new CMC s/w is just called TRACE). They're really not much different from doing it in a program like Corel Draw. It just takes a bit of patience to trace over it and make sure everything is joined properly. We have used all 3 in our shop, with the CMCs.
I could tell from a few places I've stumbled on that I'm not the only one who has issues with importing files into PathTrace. It's good to know you've had a good experience with the tracing feature though and all I need is a little patience to learn and practice it.
 
This old thread might help to clarify the DXF issue with Path Trace...
http://www.thegrumble.com/index.php?threads/bevel-changes-in-deltacad.81464/#post-1048224

I have provided DXF files in selected versions to several Wizard users, and as far as I know, they have been able to use them in the Wizard software.

After you contact Wizard about this, please report the answers here. Those of us who make custom CAD files for others would like to have confirmation of compatibility.
I need a Nadal logo "the Bull" can I pay you to design for my wizard?
 

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Yes, of course.

What will be the size you intend to cut? And how old is your Wizard cutting software?

I'll send you a series of DXF files in different versions, one of which should convertible to work in your Wizard CMC. What's your email address?
 
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