Vector Stacker · 6 minute guide
Vector Stacker: Layered SVG Art
Deconstruct flat images into nested color layers, configure material thickness, apply kerf compensation, and add registration marks for perfect physical stacking.
By Scott Bedow, Founder & Lead Developer · Published July 4, 2026 · Updated July 31, 2026
Manufacturing manager who runs CO2, diode and MOPA fiber lasers; builds and maintains every Reticle Red tool.
Method — Walked end to end in the live tool before publishing. Screens and step order match the current build; settings shown are starting points to validate on scrap.
What this tutorial covers
- Deconstruct flat images into nested, interlocking color layers.
- Configure material thickness and kerf compensation per layer.
- Add registration marks for perfect physical stack alignment.
1. Load the artwork and reduce the palette
Upload the source and choose the colors or tonal regions that should become physical layers. Start with a small useful palette and inspect whether essential features remain distinct.
2. Clean the boundaries
Adjust smoothing and node reduction while checking thin bridges, small islands and holes. Simplify only as far as the intended cut can tolerate.
3. Choose the assembly setup
Set the assembly style and kerf for the material. Review how each layer supports or overlaps its neighbors before committing to the stack.
4. Export and inspect the layer package
Add alignment marks when needed and download the layer ZIP. Inspect each file, confirm consistent dimensions and orientation, and test the material fit before cutting the complete set.
Validate the workflow on your machine
Treat the finished file as a controlled starting point, not a universal machine recipe. Confirm the artwork dimensions after import, verify focus and lens selection, and run a small test on scrap from the same material batch before committing the production piece. Change one variable at a time when tuning speed, power, frequency, line interval, or pass count. Record the machine, source wattage, lens, material finish, focus method, and final settings with the saved job. That short production note makes the result repeatable for the next operator and prevents a strong screen preview from being mistaken for a proven burn.