Vectorize Plugin Rhino 2021 |top| -
Silhouette tracing, high-contrast logos, and basic line art. The Heightfield Command Alternative
For Rhino 2021 users, the built-in Vectorize command is sufficient for most 2D tracing tasks. If you need advanced features (color separation, batch processing, automatic layering), consider third-party tools like (external) or RhinoCAM Vectorize module.
Install if you require real-time parametric control over the tracing threshold.
| Tool | Workflow | Curve Quality | Price (2021) | |------|----------|---------------|---------------| | | Inside Rhino | Good (simple graphics) | $49 | | Vector Magic | External → Import | Excellent | $295 | | Inkscape (Trace Bitmap) | External → Import | Moderate | Free | | Manual tracing in Rhino | Native | Perfect (but slow) | Free | vectorize plugin rhino 2021
: In 2021, updates were introduced to include a Grasshopper component, enabling parametric control over the vectorization process. How to Install and Use in Rhino 2021
File > Export As > AutoCAD Drawing (.dwg) or AutoCAD Interchange File (.dxf) .
After vectorization:
Use Photoshop or free tools to enhance contrast before bringing images into Rhino. Removing noise helps the Vectorize plugin create cleaner curves.
Open Rhino and type Picture to place your image reference in the Top viewport.
Prior to this plugin, Rhino users often had to export images to Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape for tracing, then re-import the results. Vectorize eliminates this "round-tripping," making it a favorite for laser cutting, CNC milling, and reverse engineering. In 2021, it became the primary recommendation for Rhino 7 users, as the older Trace plugin was no longer supported. Vectorize - Food4Rhino | Silhouette tracing, high-contrast logos, and basic line art
Watch this quick tutorial to see how the Vectorize plugin can instantly turn an intricate JPEG into editable curves: 4m Rhino Image to Vector: Vectorize Plug-In Wild Futures Lab YouTube• Aug 22, 2025
Here are the leading solutions that work flawlessly with the 2021 version of Rhino.
Once installed, using the plugin is straightforward. Follow this step-by-step workflow to convert your first raster image into clean vector curves. 1. Prepare Your Source Image Install if you require real-time parametric control over
The ART Module is best suited for users who need to go directly from an image to a machinable part. If you already use RhinoCAM for CNC work, this is a powerful addition.