What actually changes.
WEBP saves bandwidth on the web but remains a raster image. Plotting, print and unrestricted scaling require the visible form to be rebuilt as vector geometry.
The source is separated into black and white first. Connected black pixels form areas, their outer boundaries and counters are detected, and those contours are translated into closed Bézier paths.
A useful source has
- clear separation between motif and background
- enough resolution for the smallest intended stroke
- even light without reflections across the motif
- no perspective distortion when geometry matters
Step by step.
- Load the source into the Vector Boy canvas.
- Tune black level, contrast and brightness while comparing with the original.
- Remove marks that do not belong to the design.
- Inspect the Vector view and select Pixel precise, Fine or Subpixel contouring.
- Smooth visible stair steps and simplify Bézier paths conservatively.
- Download SVG after checking closed contours and counters.
Important limitation
Transparency alone does not determine the contour. The visible brightness values of the motif are what matter.
Questions before export.
Can I load transparent WEBP files?
Yes. The visible brightness of the motif still controls black-and-white separation.
Can browsers display the resulting SVG?
Yes. SVG is an open web standard and can also be edited in many design applications.