You can draw multi-color images with iDraw pen plotters by splitting an image into color layers using DrawingbotV3, exporting it as an SVG file, then importing it into Inkscape and assigning each layer to different pen colors. Each layer is drawn separately by iDraw H SE, H, or 2.0 pen plotters to create a full-color artwork.
What Is Multi-Color Pen Plotting?
Multi-color pen plotting is a process where a single image is divided into multiple layers, each representing a different color. Each layer is drawn individually using different pens, allowing the final result to appear as a colored illustration. This guide explains how to draw colorful images with pen plotters, including how to generate layered SVG files for multi-pen workflows using:
It is especially useful for users who want to:
- draw multi-color images with iDraw
- convert photos into layered vector artwork
- draw colorful photos with plotters using multiple pens
Preparation
1. Required Software
DrawingbotV3
Download here:
https://github.com/SonarSonic/DrawingBotV3
- Supports macOS, Windows, Linux
- Available in Free and Paid versions
- You can choose based on your needs
Inkscape
Recommended latest version:
https://idrawpenplotter.com/downloads
After installation, make sure to update the iDraw Pen Plotter extension files.
2. Images / Photos
You can use:
- Photos from your phone
- Images downloaded online
- Portraits of family or friends
- Any artwork or landscape photo
These will be converted into multi-layer vector drawings.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1 - Install and Import Image in DrawingbotV3
- Download and install DrawingbotV3 (Free version is enough for testing)
- Open the software
- Go to File → Import Image
- Select your image or photo
The image will be loaded into the workspace for processing.
Step 2 - Generate Multi-Layer Drawing Styles
Adjust parameters to create your desired visual effect:
- Path generation model
- Pen behavior settings
- Layer separation rules
Example Path Modes:
Sketch Lines Path Module
This mode creates line-based artistic rendering (used for sketch-style drawings).
Sketch Squares Path Module
This mode generates a block-based artistic style (used for pixel-like or geometric output).
Step 3 - Assign Colors for Multi-Layer Output
You can assign different pen colors to different layers.
This allows you to:
- draw multi-color images with idraw
- separate artwork into different pen groups
- match real pen colors (black, orange, etc.)
If you only have limited pen colors, you can simplify the output:
- Keep only black + orange layers
- Remove extra colors in software settings
Step 4 - Export SVG File
- Generate final output
- Export as SVG file
This file is compatible with Inkscape and iDraw control software.
Step 5 - Open SVG in Inkscape
Open the exported SVG file in Inkscape.
You will see:
- Multiple layers
- Separate color-based structures
- Organized drawing groups
This structure is essential for multi-color plotting.
Step 6 - Use iDraw Layer Control System
Open iDraw Control software and use the Layers function.
You can:
- Rename layers (Layer 1, Layer 2, Layer 3...)
- Control each layer independently
- Assign each layer to a different pen color
This enables precise draw colorful images with pen plotters workflow.
Alternative Method (Layer Hiding Technique)
You can also:
- Hide unnecessary layers
- Draw one color layer at a time
Example workflow:
- Hide Layer 2
- Draw Layer 1 using black pen
- Switch pen color
- Draw Layer 2 (orange layer)
- Combine results into full-color artwork
Final Output
After completing all layers, you will get:
- Fully layered color artwork
- Multi-pen plotted illustrations
- Photo-to-vector artistic conversion
- High-quality decorative prints
👉 This is one of the most effective ways to draw colorful photos with plotters using iDraw machines.
Supported Devices
- iDraw H SE Pen Plotters
- iDraw 2.0 Pen Plotters
- iDraw H Pen Plotters
Important Note
To achieve best results:
- Use properly calibrated pen pressure
- Match pen colors with layer design
- Ensure SVG layers are correctly structured