How should I set up layers in my CAD or drawing program so the file arrives ready to toolpath?

Why layers are worth planning

The official FAQ says layers are optional, then gives the reason to use them: organize layers by the toolpath that will cut them (drilling, pocket, V-carve, cutout), and combined with toolpath templates this becomes a strong production tool. A toolpath can be tied to "all closed vectors on the layer called Pocket". If your drawing already has that layer, the toolpath finds its vectors with no clicking.

Set it up at the source

1. In the CAD or drawing program, put each kind of cut on its own layer and name the layers the same way every time.
2. Export. Layer information travels with DXF files. Multi-page PDFs arrive with each page on its own layer, and the SketchUp importer lets you bring in only the layers you tick.
3. After import, open the Layers tab. CAD files often carry empty layers. They show a blank white sheet icon, and you can delete them.
4. Rename a layer by double-clicking its name. Use the layer pop-up menu to Merge layers that belong together.
5. Double-click a layer in the list to select everything on it and check that nothing landed in the wrong place. Right-click a stray object and use Move to Layer.

Connect layers to toolpaths

1. In a toolpath form click Selector....
2. Choose the geometry filter (closed vectors, open vectors, or Only Circles with an exact diameter and tolerance).
3. Pick the layer in the Layer Filter.
4. Check Associate with toolpath and close. The form now shows the selection as automatic.
5. Save the toolpaths as a template for the next job.

When a template says layers are missing

Loading a template into a file without the expected layers opens the Missing Layers for Template dialog. It lists the missing layers and gives three choices: create them automatically, delete the toolpaths tied to missing layers, or load the toolpaths as they are. Creating them gives you the standard empty layers. Move vectors onto them and choose Toolpaths > Recalculate All Toolpaths.

Pro tips

• If the drawing was not sorted, the circle filter still rescues drilling: select only circles of one diameter across all visible layers.
• The selector only sees visible layers. Hide a layer to keep it out of every automatic selection.
• Exporting vectors back out as DXF keeps their layers.