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GIMP 3.2 can export vector layers as actual vector content in an SVG, while raster layers stay raster images—or can be left out. It also lets you rasterize text, vector, and link layers for pixel-level edits, then revert to the non-raster layer state; reverting clears destructive edits made after rasterization. These features first appeared in the 3.2 release-candidate period, and GIMP 3.2 became stable on 14 March 2026.
What changed in GIMP 3.2
GIMP announced 3.2 RC1 on 17 November 2025. Among its changes were SVG export for vector content and clearer Rasterize and Revert Rasterize operations. GIMP 3.2 later reached stable release on 14 March 2026, so the RC1 announcement is useful historical context; the stable manual and release notes describe the current workflow.
These features address different needs: SVG export preserves supported vector content in an SVG file, while rasterization changes a non-raster layer into pixels so it can undergo pixel-level or other destructive editing.
How SVG export handles vector and raster layers
GIMP can export vector layers as vector content in an SVG. Raster layers do not become vectors simply because the file uses an SVG container: they are embedded as raster images or omitted, depending on the export choice.
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Choose how to include raster layers
- PNG (always): include raster layers as PNG images.
- JPEG (for opaque images, PNG otherwise): use JPEG for opaque raster layers and PNG for layers with transparency.
- Do not export raster layers: omit raster layers from the SVG.
Choose PNG when preserving transparency matters. The JPEG option uses PNG instead for layers that have transparency. Omitting raster layers leaves them out of the SVG rather than converting them into scalable artwork.
Export does not mean two-way vector editing
RC1 added vector export, but its SVG import plug-in still rasterized imported vectors. The release announcement therefore does not establish fully vector-preserving SVG import and editing. Treat exporting vector layers and reopening SVG artwork as separate capabilities.
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When to rasterize a layer—and what reverting does
GIMP 3.2 includes non-raster text, vector, and link layers. Rasterize one when a needed operation requires pixels, such as painting directly on the layer or merging filters destructively. Before rasterization, the layer remains in its non-raster form and can be edited as such; after rasterization, pixel-level operations are available.
Revert Rasterize restores the layer to its non-raster form, but clears destructive edits made after rasterization. It is not a way to keep those raster edits while recovering the original layer type. GIMP describes a non-destructive layer as one that can be edited later without using Undo, much like non-destructive filters.
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Using linked SVG artwork alongside GIMP
GIMP’s release notes describe link layers as a way to include an external image in a composition. One example is SVG artwork edited in Inkscape: changes to the external file can be reflected in GIMP. This can be useful when keeping artwork in a separate file, but it is an optional companion workflow rather than a requirement for exporting SVG from GIMP.
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- Works With All Software: Wacom Intuos tablet can be used in any software program to explore new facets of digital creativity; draw, paint, edit photos/videos, create designs, and mark up documents
- Wireless Superior Connectivity: Connect wirelessly via Bluetooth or directly using USB-A cable which enables you to work, draw or create whether it's at a desk, on the sofa, in classroom or even outside
- Software and Training Included: Only Wacom gives you software with every purchase. Register your Intuos tablet and gain access to some of the best creative software and Wacom's online training
- Wacom is the Global Leader in Drawing Tablet and Displays: For over 40 years in pen display and tablet market, you can trust that Wacom to help you bring your vision, ideas and creativity to life
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