PNG to CDR – Convert an Image for CorelDRAW
There are two very different things people mean by PNG to CDR. One is simply placing the PNG inside a CorelDRAW file, which takes two seconds and keeps it a pixel image. The other is tracing it into real editable vector curves, which is what you actually need for printing large or cutting on a plotter. This page covers both.
Can this be done in the browser?
Not directly — CDR is CorelDRAW's closed format and cannot be written by a browser tool. Use the free tracing route below. ExamFo can clean and resize the PNG first, which strongly affects trace quality.
PNG to CDR – Convert an Image for CorelDRAW — What You Need to Know
There are two very different things people mean by PNG to CDR. One is simply placing the PNG inside a CorelDRAW file, which takes two seconds and keeps it a pixel image. The other is tracing it into real editable vector curves, which is what you actually need for printing large or cutting on a plotter. This page covers both.
Covers png to cdr, png to cdr converter, image to CorelDRAW vector, and tracing a logo for print production.
How to PNG to CDR Step by Step
- Decide what you actually need: just placing the image, or real editable curves. Only the second one needs tracing.
- To simply place it: In CorelDRAW, File → Import your PNG and save as CDR. It stays a pixel image and will blur if scaled up.
- To get real vectors, trace in Inkscape (free): Import the PNG, then Path → Trace Bitmap. Use Colors mode for a multi-colour logo.
- Save as SVG from Inkscape — SVG is the reliable bridge format between Inkscape and CorelDRAW.
- Open the SVG in CorelDRAW and save as CDR. The curves arrive fully editable.
- Or use CorelDRAW's own PowerTRACE: if you have Corel, Bitmaps → Outline Trace → Logo does the whole job in one step.
Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Input format | PNG, JPG |
| Output format | CDR (via SVG) |
| Free route | Inkscape trace → SVG → CorelDRAW → save as CDR |
| Paid route | CorelDRAW PowerTRACE, one step |
| Bridge format | SVG |
| Best source | Flat colour logo, high contrast, 300+ DPI |
| Scalable result | Only after tracing — a placed PNG stays pixel-based |
| What ExamFo does | Cleans, converts and resizes the source PNG |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just import a PNG into CorelDRAW?
Yes, and for many jobs that is enough. But it stays a pixel image, so it will blur if you scale it up for a banner or a cut file.
What is the free way to get real vectors?
Trace the PNG in Inkscape, save as SVG, then open that SVG in CorelDRAW and save as CDR. Every step of that is free except CorelDRAW itself.
Why does my traced logo look blocky?
The source PNG resolution is too low. Tracing cannot invent detail — start from the highest resolution version you can find.
Does PowerTRACE do a better job than Inkscape?
Generally yes on complex multi-colour artwork, but for a simple flat logo the difference is small and Inkscape is free.
Can ExamFo write CDR files?
No. CDR is a closed CorelDRAW format. ExamFo prepares the source image before you trace it.
Related tools
Format converters & guides
You may also need Compress Image to KB, Photo Resizer, PNG Compressor.