SVG cleaning checklist for engravers

1) Normalize the viewBox

Set a consistent viewBox so your artwork scales predictably between design apps and your laser software. Pair it with explicit width/height values for quick mockups.

2) Remove empty groups and hidden layers

Stray layers add nothing but rendering time. Delete empty groups, masks, and invisible paths so you aren’t engraving ghost objects or fighting with accidental selections.

3) Merge overlapping paths

Combine duplicate outlines and unite overlapping shapes. It reduces laser passes, prevents double lines, and keeps your fill areas clean.

4) Flatten transforms

Expand strokes and flatten transforms before export. Your laser preview will match what you see, and alignment won’t depend on a specific design program.

5) Label layers by operation

Rename layers for score, engrave, and cut. Clear labels make it obvious which color maps to which setting, even months later.

6) Save a clean master

Keep a version-controlled source file plus an export-ready SVG. When an order comes in, you can duplicate the master, adjust text or personalization, and send it to the laser without rework.