How to Convert Canva Designs to SVG Format

Have you ever designed something amazing in Canva, maybe a logo, icon, or detailed graphic, only to realize you need it in SVG format?

Maybe you’re trying to use it on Cricut, or a website, a laser cutter, an engraving machine, and PNG or JPG just won’t cut it.

While Canva doesn’t directly let you export files as SVG (unless you have Canva Pro), there are super simple workarounds to get the job done.

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to convert your Canva designs into SVG format using a few different methods. Whether you’re a Canva Pro user or on the free plan, I’ve got a solution for you.

Let’s get to it.

Why You need an SVG File

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is a format used for vector-based images. Unlike PNGs and JPGs, SVG files don’t lose quality when you scale them up or down. This makes them perfect for:

• Logos (so they look crisp on any screen size)
• Icons (for websites, apps, or UI design)
• Print & cutting machines (Cricut, laser engraving, and more)
• Animations & web graphics (SVGs load faster than PNGs)

Before converting your design, you will have to make sure your design is created with the properties that do well as an SVG.

What You Can Convert to SVG

• Logos & Icons: Works best for simple vector-based designs.
• Text-based Graphics: Convert to curves first to avoid font issues.
• Line Art & Illustrations: Best if the design has clean, simple shapes.
• Flat Color Graphics: Works well as SVG files don’t handle raster effects.

What You Can’t Convert Directly To SVG

• Photos & Complex Raster Images: These are not true vectors and will not retain SVG scalability.
• Gradients & Textures: Some effects may not translate well when exported.
• Layered & Transparent Effects: May not appear the same after conversion.

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step tutorial.

Method 1: Exporting SVG from Canva Pro

If you have Canva Pro, exporting an SVG is very simple. Here’s how:

Step 1: Open Your Design in Canva

Head to Canva and open the design you want to convert.

An example of a suitable design to convert to SVG format is like this:

If you want ready-made SVG graphics and assets, you can get them here:

Step 2: Click ‘Share’ → ‘Download’

In the top-right corner, click the ‘Share’ button.

Click ‘Download’ from the dropdown menu.

Step 3: Select ‘SVG’ as the File Type

Under ‘File Type,’ select SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics).

Make sure ‘Transparent background’ is checked if you don’t want a solid background.

Hit ‘Download’ and you’re done.

Best for: Logos, vector-based icons, and clean illustrations.

If your text is acting weird after export, convert text to curves first (more on this later).

Method 2: Convert PNG to SVG

If you’re using the free version of Canva, you won’t see an option to download as SVG, but don’t worry, here’s how to convert a PNG or PDF into SVG using free tools.

This method is great if your design is simple, like black-and-white icons or line drawings.

Step 1: Download Your Design as PNG

PNG is one of the best formats when you want to convert Canva to high resolution images. Hence, it’s a great way to get an SVG file from PNG.

Click ‘Share’ → ‘Download.’

Choose PNG format and check the ‘Transparent Background’ box (if available).

Save it to your computer.

Step 2: Convert PNG to SVG Using an Online Converter

Go to Vectorizer.io (or another free converter like Picsvg.com or Convertio.co).

Upload your PNG file and let the tool auto-trace your image into an SVG.

Adjust the settings for better accuracy (especially if your design has details).

Download the SVG file.

If your design looks too pixelated after conversion, try tracing it manually in Inkscape or Illustrator.

Method 3: Convert Canva PDF to SVG (Best for Logos & Text Designs)

If your design has text and crisp vector elements, exporting Canva to PDF and converting it to SVG works better than using PNG.

Step 1: Download Your Design as a PDF

Click ‘Share’ → ‘Download.’

Select PDF Standard (not ‘PDF Print’).

Download and save the file.

Step 2: Convert PDF to SVG Using Inkscape or an Online Converter

Now, let’s turn it into an SVG file.

Option A: Convert Online (Easy & Quick)

Go to CloudConvert.com.

Upload your PDF file and click Convert.

Download your new SVG file.

Option B: Convert in Inkscape (For Perfect Results)

Download and install Inkscape (free vector editing software).

Open your PDF in Inkscape.

Click File → Save As → SVG and you’ve got an SVG.

Final Thoughts

Now you know multiple ways to convert your Canva designs to SVG format, whether you have Canva Pro or are using the free version.

Quick Recap:

1. Canva Pro users → Directly download as SVG.
2. Free Canva users → Convert PNG or PDF using free tools like Vectorizer.io, Convertio, or Inkscape.
3. For the best results → Convert PDF to SVG for logos and detailed designs.

Try these methods and let me know which one worked best for you. Got questions? Drop them in the comments.