How to Trace Bitmaps Using PowerTRACE in CorelDRAW

CorelDRAW’s integrated PowerTRACE engine provides a fast and efficient way to convert raster bitmap images into fully editable, scalable vector graphics. This step-by-step guide covers how to import your image, select the best trace method, adjust settings for clean vector results, and finalize your artwork for production.

Step 1: Import Your Bitmap

Open your CorelDRAW document and import the image you want to convert. Go to File > Import, select your image file (such as a JPEG or PNG), and click onto the workspace to place it. Ensure the image is selected with the Pick tool.

Step 2: Choose a Tracing Method

With the bitmap selected, look at the Property Bar at the top of the screen to find the Trace Bitmap dropdown menu. PowerTRACE provides three primary methods:

  • Quick Trace: Converts the bitmap in a single click using default parameters. This works best for simple, high-contrast images.
  • Centerline Trace: Creates unfilled open and closed curves using the centerlines of technical illustrations, line drawings, or signatures.
  • Outline Trace: The most versatile and commonly used method. It outlines shapes to produce solid vector objects.

Step 3: Select an Outline Trace Preset

For general artwork and logos, hover over Outline Trace and select the preset that best matches your source image:

  • Line Art: Best for monochrome sketches and mechanical drawings.
  • Logo: Ideal for simple logos with few colors and crisp edges.
  • Detailed Logo: Best for logos with fine details or gradients.
  • Clipart: Suited for graphics with varying colors and moderate detail.
  • Low Quality Image: Optimized for photos or graphics with low resolution that need smoothing.
  • High Quality Image: Preserves fine details in complex, high-resolution bitmaps.

Step 4: Adjust Settings in the PowerTRACE Window

Selecting a preset opens the PowerTRACE preview dialog, displaying a split-screen or side-by-side comparison of the original bitmap and the vector result. Use the controls on the right panel to fine-tune the output:

  • Detail: Adjust the slider to increase or decrease the amount of detail preserved. Higher detail creates more nodes and smaller shapes; lower detail simplifies the paths.
  • Smoothing: Smooths curved paths to reduce jagged edges.
  • Corner Smoothness: Controls the sharpness of corners throughout the trace.
  • Delete Original Image: Check this box under the Options section to automatically remove the source bitmap once the vector is generated.
  • Remove Background: Automatically detects and deletes the background color. You can choose to remove color from the entire image or only the edges.
  • Colors Tab: Switch to this tab to reduce the total number of colors used in the vector graphic, merge similar color shades, or change color modes (e.g., RGB to CMYK).

Step 5: Finalize and Edit the Vector Graphic

Click OK once the preview meets your requirements. PowerTRACE will place the finished vector directly on top of your original bitmap (unless you checked "Delete Original Image").

The converted graphic is grouped by default. To edit individual shapes, select the graphic and press Ctrl + U (or right-click and choose Ungroup Objects). You can now use the Shape tool (F10) to manipulate individual nodes, recolor specific sections, or delete unwanted background artifacts.