Shaper Trace converts sketches into digital files

Shaper Tools, the maker of the Shaper Origin portable CNC router, introduces the Shaper Trace, a drawing toolkit that allows end-users to turn any sketch or drawing into a vector graphic by taking a picture and processing it through the Trace app.

“Trace is the easiest vector graphic conversion tool on the market and allows you to turn hand sketches into vector graphics in seconds. You simply take a picture of a drawing with your smartphone and Trace instantly converts it to a scalable vector graphic (SVG). This SVG can then be used with Shaper Origin, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, CNC machines, and more to bring your idea to life,” says Zach Dunham, vice president of global marketing for Shaper Tools.

“Trace is unique in that it also finds the centerline of your sketch, in addition to capturing the outline, providing a clean path that’s optimized for working with certain fabrication machines.”

The Shaper Trace toolkit includes the Trace Frame, which measures 10-1/2” x 7-1/2”, a technical drawing pen and free access to the Trace app. Users draw a sketch on paper within the size of the frame and using the app, they next capture a photograph of the sketch, which is automatically converted to a scaled, flattened vector file.

The Shaper Trace sells for $99. For more, visit shapertools.com.  

This article was originally published in the October 2023 issue.