Hi guys. My main knowledge base lies in AutoCAD and Photoshop, so vector graphics are a little new to me.

The Scenario: I run a CNC machine. I am trying to convert text (specific fonts) into CAD format shapes I can use to create CNC toolpaths. I've been told that Illustrator can do this, but I'm not going to shell out $600 for a program I'm going to use once a month if that. Anyway, a friend recommended Inkscape to me.

The Problem: I tried using a text box to make letters, and then Save As: to save it in DFX format. When I load the resulting DFX into AutoCAD, I just get a blank screen. I tried converting the text into a path (although I may have done this wrong...) and when trying to save as a DFX I get a runtime error (yeah, I'm running windoze, it's work, I get no choice) in the inkscape.exe file which then crashes the program and creates a corrupted DFX file that neither Inkscape or AutoCAD can open.

The Question: Does anyone know how to convert text to a usable DFX file using Inkscape (or barring that, another open source program)?

Thanks a bunch!

I rarely ever go from Inkscape to AutoCAD. Usually, I go the other way...AutoCAD to Inkscape (via PDF). I'm sure there are some free converters out there but since I have Blender (free) installed I can use it as a bridge from Inkscape to AutoCAD. Convert your text to a path and save as SVG, import the Inkscape SVG in Blender, and export as a DXF. I just tried it and it works well with Inkscape v0.46 and AutoCAD 2010.

That worked out, thanks!