Image to Vector (ToVec) Node

The ToVec (To Vector) node converts raster images (PNG, JPG, etc.) into scalable vector graphics (SVG). This allows you to create clean, resolution-independent artwork from photos, logos, or any image source.

Overview

ToVec uses advanced edge detection and tracing algorithms to convert pixel-based images into smooth vector paths. The resulting SVG files can be scaled to any size without losing quality, edited in vector graphics software, and are much smaller in file size for simple graphics.

Quick Start

Basic Image to Vector Workflow

1. Add an Image Node

   • Drag an Image node onto the canvas
   • Generate or load an image (photo, logo, screenshot, etc.)

2. Add a ToVec Node

   • Drag a ToVec node from the sidebar
   • Connect the Image node's output to the ToVec node's input

3. Convert to Vector

   • Click the Play button in the ToVec node header
   • The vectorized output appears in the node

4. Adjust Settings

   • Click the Settings button (gear icon) to open configuration
   • Adjust sliders to refine the vector output
   • The preview updates automatically when you release each slider

5. Download Result

   • Click the Download button in the node header
   • Save the SVG file to your computer

Configuration Options

All parameters can be adjusted in the configuration panel. Move a slider and release to see the updated preview.

Threshold (0-255)

Controls edge detection sensitivity

• Lower values (0-100): Detects only strong edges, results in simpler vectors
• Medium values (100-180): Balanced edge detection (recommended starting point: 128)
• Higher values (180-255): Detects subtle edges, creates more detailed vectors

Best for:

• Low: Simple logos, icons, high-contrast graphics
• Medium: Photos, mixed content, general use
• High: Detailed artwork, complex images

Blur Amount (0-10)

Smooths edges before tracing

• 0-2: Sharp, crisp edges - best for screenshots and graphics
• 3-5: Moderate smoothing - good for photos and natural images
• 6-10: Heavy smoothing - reduces noise and small details

Use blur when:

• Your image has noise or compression artifacts
• You want smoother, more organic curves
• The vectorized output has too many jagged edges

Colors (Posterize) (2-16)

Number of color levels to detect

• 2-4: Simplified color palette - good for logos and icons
• 5-8: Moderate detail - works for most photos
• 9-16: Maximum color detail - best for complex artwork

Note: More colors = more vector paths = larger file size

Stroke Width (0.1-5)

Thickness of vector outlines in pixels

• 0.1-1: Thin lines - professional, clean look
• 1-2: Medium lines - standard for most uses
• 2-5: Thick lines - bold, graphic style

Scale Factor (0.5x-3x)

Resize the output SVG

• 0.5x: Half size - reduces file size
• 1x: Original size - recommended
• 2-3x: Larger - for high-resolution output

Tip: SVG scales infinitely, so you can usually keep this at 1x and resize later

Filter Small Lines

Checkbox: Remove short line segments

• Unchecked: Keep all details
• Checked: Simplifies output by removing tiny lines

Enable when:

• Output has too much noise
• You want a cleaner, simpler result
• File size is too large

Number of Colors in Palette (2-64)

Total colors available during tracing

• 2-16: Limited palette - graphic/poster style
• 16-32: Balanced - good for most images
• 32-64: Maximum colors - photorealistic attempt

Use Cases

1. Logo Conversion

Convert raster logos to scalable SVG for:

• Website headers (responsive design)
• Print materials (infinite resolution)
• App icons and branding
• Vector editing in Illustrator/Inkscape

Recommended Settings:

• Threshold: 100-150
• Blur: 0-1
• Colors: 2-6
• Filter Small Lines: ✓

2. Photo to Art

Transform photos into artistic vector illustrations:

• Portrait silhouettes
• Landscape posters
• Pop art effects
• Stencil designs

Recommended Settings:

• Threshold: 120-140
• Blur: 2-4
• Colors: 6-12
• Filter Small Lines: ✓

3. Icon Creation

Generate custom icons from screenshots or drawings:

• UI icons for apps
• Website navigation icons
• Infographic elements
• Social media graphics

Recommended Settings:

• Threshold: 140-180
• Blur: 1-2
• Colors: 3-8
• Filter Small Lines: ✓

4. Text Extraction

Convert text from images to editable vectors:

• Handwritten text
• Stylized fonts
• Signage and typography
• Logo text

Recommended Settings:

• Threshold: 160-200
• Blur: 0-1
• Colors: 2-3
• Filter Small Lines: ✗

Workflow Integration

Featured: AI Logo → Vector → Website Design

Complete end-to-end design workflow combining AI generation, vectorization, and web design:

Workflow Steps:

1. Image Node → Generate logo with AI

   • Prompt: "minimalist tech company logo, clean lines, single color"
   • Model: DALL-E 3 or Google Imagen
   • Output: High-quality PNG logo

2. ToVec Node → Convert to scalable vector

   • Settings: Threshold 150, Colors 3-4, Filter lines ✓
   • Output: Clean SVG with crisp edges
   • Download SVG for immediate use

3. Designer Node → Build website with vectorized logo

   • Import SVG logo into design canvas
   • Create full website layout with logo in header
   • Export production-ready HTML/CSS

Why This Works:

• AI generates unique designs - No stock images needed
• Vectors scale perfectly - Logo looks sharp at any size
• Instant iteration - Change prompt, regenerate, re-vectorize
• Professional output - Production-ready assets in minutes

Pro Tips:

• Use simple prompts for better vectorization ("flat design", "minimal", "geometric")
• Black and white logos vectorize cleaner than multi-color
• Test different threshold values (140-180) for optimal edge detection
• Download multiple SVG variations with different settings

AI Image → Vector Pipeline

Generate unique vector graphics with AI:

1. Image Node (Generate with AI prompt)
   • Example: "minimalist mountain logo, black and white"
2. ToVec Node (Convert to vector)
3. Download SVG for use in design software

Batch Processing Multiple Images

Convert a collection of images:

1. DataGrid Node (List of image URLs)
2. Loop Node (Iterate through list)
3. Image Node (Load each image)
4. ToVec Node (Convert to vector)
5. Collection of SVG files

Dynamic Logo Generation

Create procedural logos:

1. Code Node (Generate abstract shapes)
2. Image Node (Render as bitmap)
3. ToVec Node (Convert to vector)
4. Web Node (Display on website mockup)

Screenshot to Vector UI

Convert app screenshots to editable vectors:

1. Image Node (Upload screenshot)
2. ToVec Node (High threshold for details)
3. Download SVG
4. Edit in vector software

Tips for Best Results

Input Image Quality

• Higher resolution = better results: Use at least 800x800px for detailed images
• Clean backgrounds: Solid colors work better than gradients
• Good contrast: Strong light/dark differences trace better
• Avoid compression: PNG is better than heavily compressed JPG

Choosing Settings

1. Start with defaults: Let the first conversion complete
2. Adjust threshold first: This has the biggest impact
3. Fine-tune colors: Match your needs (simple vs. detailed)
4. Add blur if needed: Smooth out noise last

Performance Tips

• Conversion takes time: Complex images may take 5-10 seconds
• Wait for completion: Don't adjust sliders during conversion
• Simpler = faster: Lower color counts process faster
• Preview shows bitmap: For smooth rendering, download for actual SVG

When to Use ToVec

Good for:

• Logos and icons
• High-contrast images
• Simple shapes and graphics
• Black & white art
• Silhouettes

Not ideal for:

• Photographs (unless artistic effect desired)
• Gradients (they become stepped)
• Very complex images (huge file sizes)
• Highly detailed textures

Understanding the Preview

The ToVec node shows two previews in the configuration panel:

• Left: Source Image - Your original input
• Right: Vector Output - The converted result

While adjusting sliders:

• The numeric value updates immediately
• Conversion starts when you release the mouse
• A spinner appears during processing
• Preview updates with the new result

Note: The preview displays a bitmap version for performance. The actual SVG download contains true vectors.

File Size Considerations

Vector file sizes depend on complexity:

• Simple logo: 2-10 KB
• Detailed icon: 20-50 KB
• Complex photo: 100-500 KB
• Very detailed image: 1+ MB

To reduce file size:

1. Lower the number of colors
2. Enable "Filter Small Lines"
3. Increase blur slightly
4. Reduce threshold (simpler edges)
5. Lower the posterize value

Keyboard Shortcuts

While the ToVec node is selected in detail mode:

• Shift+T: Toggle header visibility
• Shift+H: Toggle connection handles
• Double-click header: Minimize to compact mode

Troubleshooting

"No Input Image" Message

Problem: ToVec node isn't connected to an image source

Solution:

• Drag a connection from an Image node's output to the ToVec input
• Ensure the Image node has generated or loaded an image
• Check that the upstream node is an Image type

Conversion Doesn't Start

Problem: Clicking Play doesn't convert

Solution:

• Make sure an image is connected
• Click the Play button in the ToVec node header (not config panel)
• Check browser console for errors
• Try refreshing the page

Output Looks Too Simplified

Problem: Vector is missing details

Solution:

• Increase threshold value (try 180-220)
• Increase number of colors (try 12-24)
• Reduce blur amount (try 0-1)
• Uncheck "Filter Small Lines"

Output Has Too Much Noise

Problem: Vector has jagged edges or tiny lines

Solution:

• Decrease threshold value (try 80-120)
• Increase blur amount (try 3-6)
• Check "Filter Small Lines"
• Reduce number of colors (try 4-8)

Conversion Takes Forever

Problem: Processing seems stuck

Solution:

• Large/complex images take 10-30 seconds
• Check if spinner is showing (it's working)
• Don't adjust sliders during conversion
• Try reducing image resolution in Image node
• Simplify settings (fewer colors, more blur)

Downloaded SVG Looks Different

Problem: SVG file doesn't match preview

Solution:

• The preview shows a bitmap for performance
• Open SVG in vector software to see actual paths
• Try different SVG viewer/editor
• Verify the download completed successfully

Can't Adjust Sliders Smoothly

Problem: Sliders feel laggy or don't update

Solution:

• Wait for current conversion to finish
• The conversion only starts when you release the slider
• Each adjustment triggers a new conversion
• This is intentional to prevent excessive processing

Advanced Techniques

Creating Stencils

Perfect for cutting machines or spray paint:

1. Set colors to 2-3 (minimal colors)
2. High threshold (180-220)
3. No blur
4. Enable line filter
5. Result: Clean, cuttable paths

Pop Art Effect

Bold, graphic style:

1. Medium threshold (120-150)
2. Low colors (4-6)
3. Slight blur (2-3)
4. Result: Posterized, Andy Warhol style

Line Art from Photos

Convert photos to line drawings:

1. Very high threshold (200-240)
2. Colors: 2 (black and white)
3. No blur
4. Enable line filter
5. Result: Sketch-like outline

Preparing for Print

High-quality vector for professional use:

1. Start with high-res image (2000px+)
2. Medium-high threshold (160-180)
3. Moderate colors (8-16)
4. Light blur (1-2)
5. Download SVG
6. Clean up in Illustrator/Inkscape

Integration with Design Tools

The exported SVG can be edited in:

• Adobe Illustrator: Full editing capabilities
• Inkscape: Free, powerful vector editor
• Figma: Web-based design tool
• Sketch: Mac design application
• CorelDRAW: Professional vector software

In these tools you can:

• Adjust individual paths
• Change colors precisely
• Add effects and filters
• Combine with other vectors
• Export to other formats (PDF, EPS, etc.)

Related Documentation

• Image Node - Generate or load images for conversion
• Chart Nodes - Other visualization options
• Code Node - Programmatic image manipulation
• Loop Node - Batch process multiple images
• Workflow Basics - Building complete workflows

Step-by-Step Tutorial: AI Logo to Website

This tutorial shows you how to create a complete branding workflow from AI generation to production website.

Step 1: Generate Logo with AI

1. Add an Image node to your canvas
2. Click the AI Wizard button (sparkles icon)
3. Enter a detailed logo prompt:

Example Prompt:

Create a minimalist logo for a SaaS company called "CloudSync"
- Geometric shapes only
- Single color (deep blue)
- Cloud and arrow symbol
- Flat design, vector-friendly
- White background

1. Click Generate and wait for the AI to create your logo
2. Review the generated image - if not perfect, adjust the prompt and regenerate

AI Prompt Tips for Vectorization:

• Include "flat design" or "vector style" in prompt
• Specify "clean lines" and "geometric shapes"
• Request "high contrast" and "simple colors"
• Avoid gradients, shadows, or realistic textures
• Mention "white background" or "transparent background"

Step 2: Convert to Scalable Vector

1. Add a ToVec node to the canvas

2. Connect the Image node output → ToVec node input

3. Click the Play button in ToVec to start conversion

4. Open the Settings panel (gear icon)

5. Adjust parameters while watching the preview:

   • Threshold: Start at 150, adjust up/down for edge detail
   • Colors: 3-4 for simple logos (fewer = cleaner)
   • Blur: 0-1 for crisp edges
   • Filter Small Lines: ✓ Check to remove noise
   • Stroke Width: 1-2 for clean outlines

6. When satisfied, click Download in the ToVec header

7. Save the SVG file (e.g., "cloudSync-logo.svg")

Troubleshooting Vector Output:

• Too simplified? Increase threshold (try 180-200) and colors (6-8)
• Too noisy? Decrease threshold (try 120-140) and enable line filter
• Jagged edges? Add slight blur (1-2) and adjust threshold
• Wrong colors? Increase "Number of Colors" parameter

Step 3: Build Website Design with Vector Logo

1. Add a Designer node to your canvas

2. Click to open the design canvas in detail mode

3. Import your vectorized logo:

   • Click Layers panel
   • Click Add Image Layer
   • Upload the SVG file you downloaded
   • Position logo in header area

4. Design your website layout:

   • Add header section with logo
   • Create navigation menu
   • Design hero section
   • Add content sections

5. Your vector logo will:

   • Scale perfectly at any zoom level
   • Remain crisp on retina displays
   • Work in light/dark themes
   • Export cleanly to production

6. Export your website:

   • Click Export in Designer
   • Choose HTML/CSS output
   • Deploy to hosting platform

Designer Integration Benefits:

• Infinite scaling - Logo stays sharp when resizing
• Easy editing - Modify logo colors and properties
• Responsive design - Logo adapts to all screen sizes
• Fast loading - SVG files are tiny (2-10KB)

Alternative: Direct Designer Workflow

For even faster iteration, connect all three nodes in sequence:

Image → ToVec → Designer (live preview)

Changes in the Image node (new AI generation) automatically flow through:

1. ToVec re-converts to vector
2. Designer updates the logo in real-time
3. See complete design with new logo instantly

This enables rapid A/B testing of different logo variations in your website design!

Common Workflows

Business Card Logo

1. Image (AI generation: "modern tech company logo")
2. ToVec (simple settings: threshold 150, colors 4)
3. Download SVG
4. Use in business card design

Social Media Icon Set

1. DataGrid (list of icon concepts)
2. Loop (iterate)
3. Image (generate each icon)
4. ToVec (consistent settings)
5. Collect SVG files

Website Header Graphic

1. Image (landscape photo)
2. ToVec (artistic settings: threshold 140, colors 8, blur 3)
3. Web Node (preview on website)
4. Download for production

T-Shirt Design

1. Image (upload sketch/photo)
2. ToVec (high contrast: threshold 180, colors 2-3)
3. Download SVG
4. Use with print-on-demand service

Best Practices

1. Test with default settings first - See what works automatically before adjusting
2. Make one change at a time - Understand each parameter's effect
3. Save successful settings - Note combinations that work for different image types
4. Use high-quality source images - Better input = better output
5. Consider final use - Print vs. web affects settings choices
6. Keep it simple when possible - Fewer colors often looks better
7. Post-process in vector software - ToVec gets you 80% there, refine in Illustrator
8. Batch similar images - Use consistent settings for related images

FAQ

Q: Can I use ToVec with Designer for website design? A: Yes! This is one of the most powerful workflows:

1. Generate logo with AI in Image node
2. Convert to vector with ToVec
3. Import SVG into Designer for website layout
4. Logo scales perfectly and loads fast

The vector logo will remain crisp at all sizes and export cleanly with your website HTML/CSS.

Q: How do I connect ToVec output to Designer? A: Two options:

1. Download method: Download SVG from ToVec, then upload to Designer's image layer
2. Direct connection (coming soon): Connect ToVec output → Designer input for live updates

Q: Can I vectorize photos? A: Yes, but results are artistic rather than photorealistic. Use higher color counts (12-16) and moderate blur for best results.

Q: How do I get a true black and white output? A: Set "Colors (Posterize)" to 2 and use high threshold (180+). This creates pure black/white paths.

Q: Why is my SVG file so large? A: Complex images with many colors create thousands of paths. Reduce colors, enable line filter, or use simpler source images.

Q: Can I edit the SVG after export? A: Absolutely! That's the beauty of vectors. Open in any vector editor and modify paths, colors, and shapes.

Q: What's the difference between ToVec and just saving an image? A: SVGs scale infinitely without pixelation, have smaller file sizes for simple graphics, and are editable as vector paths.

Q: Does ToVec work on the iPad? A: Yes! All features work identically on iPad, including real-time preview and downloads.

Q: Can I vectorize text? A: Yes, but for editable text you'll need to clean it up in a vector editor. ToVec creates paths, not text objects.

Q: How long does conversion take? A: Usually 2-10 seconds depending on image complexity. Very detailed images may take 20-30 seconds.

Q: Will adjusting settings multiple times take longer? A: Each slider adjustment restarts the conversion with new settings. Wait for one to finish before adjusting others.

Q: Can I use ToVec in automated workflows? A: Yes! Connect it in workflows with Loop nodes for batch processing or with Agent nodes for AI-driven vector generation.

Q: What AI models work best for logo generation? A: For logos intended for vectorization:

• DALL-E 3: Excellent for clean, geometric logos
• Google Imagen: Great for minimalist designs
• Midjourney (via API): Outstanding for brand identity Use prompts emphasizing "flat design", "vector style", and "clean lines"