Hello,

I got a die-cut machine for Christmas and am trying to use it to cut out my stained glass patterns. I use a stained glass design program to create the patterns. I remove the coloring and text from the pattern pieces and export the file to a bmp. I import the bmp into Inkscape, set the desktop to inches and resize the image. I then select the image and use the Trace Bitmap function.

I move the traced bitmap to the side and delete the original. I then select the entire image and use the 'break apart' command, which leaves me with a big black area and the outlines of the pieces. How do I get the solid black area off of the bottom image?

I've used trial and error to move a piece off and then go back to the same area and slide the black area off and delete it. The problem is getting the piece I moved back into place. In order to allow for the width of the solder line, I set an offset in the 'preferences - behavior - steps', I lose that offset when I move the piece back.

Once I am able to get the top black area off, I can save the image as an svg and upload it into the die-cut machine software. If the pattern is larger than 12", the software automatically rearranges the pattern pieces to fit them on the 12" x 12" mat. This allows me to have the machine cut the pieces out of vinyl or cardstock and the allowance for the solder lines are already included.

Is there a better way to do this? I can't print out pattern pieces for patterns larger than 11.5" if I don't get the pieces separated first.

Thanks

Sue

Select all: Ctrl+A

Now: set a stroke, remove the fill.

See https://inkscape-manuals.readthedocs.io ... ialog.html

This way, all shapes will only have their border visible, and will be easier to select.

Other option would be to click on one item, then use Alt + mousewheel to scroll through the stack in the location of the mouse cursor.