DOCS / HOW-TO GUIDES / IMPORT AND EXPORT

Export a DXF file for a CNC or laser

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The DXF export draws each sheet panel flat, once for each cut list row, with its letter and quantity. Timber that is cut to an outline is drawn in the same way. Straight, turned and tapered timber is not drawn.

KerfCraft does not promise that a DXF file is correct for cutting. Check every dimension against your own measurements before cutting.

Export the file#

Select File ▸ Import / Export….
On the Export tab, select DXF (workshop 2D) (.dxf).
Click Whole project, or select parts first and click Selection.
Read the report. It lists the parts that are not drawn and the parts that need extra checking.
Click Export….

The file name has the project name and the revision, for example Bookcase-rev12.dxf.

Set up the CAM software#

The geometry is in millimetres, whatever the project units are. The file sets $INSUNITS to 4 (millimetres).
The outlines are the finished sizes. The file has no kerf. Set the kerf or tool compensation in your CAM software.
Edge profiles are not drawn.

The layers#

Layer	Contents
`CUT_OUTER`	The outline of each part, as a closed polyline
`CUT_INNER`	Cut-outs through a panel, for example for a sink or a hob
`DRILL`	Holes, as circles at their diameter
`POCKET_DADO`, `POCKET_GROOVE`, `POCKET_REBATE`, `MORTISE`, `DOWEL`	Pockets in a face, one layer for each operation
The same names with `_EDGE`	Pockets in an edge or an end
`ANNOTATIONS`	Part letter, quantity, description and overall sizes
`REFERENCE`	Grain arrows
`CHECK`	A "NEEDS EXTRA CHECKING" note and its reason, on each part that needs it

Hole depth, face and purpose are in the part note and in the KERFCRAFT extended data of each circle.

Export only some parts#

You can also export a selection from the Properties panel. Select the parts, click Export selection…, then select the DXF format.