How to use an SVG file in Affinity Designer

If you want to learn how to use an SVG file in Affinity Designer, then this tutorial is just for you. A SVG file usually contains individual pieces of the design, each on their own layer. We will show you how to access and use these layers in order to edit the SVG design.

Before we begin, ensure that your file has been downloaded and unzipped to your device. We are using a cute gift SVG but we have more birthday SVG files to choose from.

Step 1 - Open the SVG File

Let’s begin by opening Affinity Designer then go to File > Open.

In the new window that appears, select the SVG file you want to edit. Look for the file that says Scalable Vector Graphic under Type. Then click on Open.

Step 2 - Edit the SVG Layers

When you open the SVG file, it may be grouped, as is with our SVG below. While grouped, you can easily move the design around as a whole.

To access the individual parts of the SVG design, go to the Layers Panel on the right hand side. You can open the grouped layer by clicking on the arrow. This will open a drop down selection of individual layers.

SVG files can be broken down into the smallest detail. This gives more flexibility when editing. In this selection of layers, you may find more grouped layers. Click the drop down arrow to open one of the groups..

Alternatively, you can just click on part of the design with the Move Tool from the left side toolbar. It looks like a black arrow with a white outline. Once selected, when you click on a part of the design, you can move, resize or rotate it.

If selecting a layer from the Layers Panel, you will see the bounding box appear around that element.

Once selected, you can now edit the size, reposition, or even change the color. You can also mix up the elements to create a new design.

Once you have finished editing your SVG, it’s a good idea to save this as a new file. You want to avoid overwriting the original file. Go to File > Export then select SVG as your format. The design can also be saved in other formats of your choice.

Now that you know how to use a SVG file in Affinity Designer, you can even create a SVG design of your own.