How to convert XCF to PDF
- Add your .XCF file - drop it in the box above or click to browse.
- Convert it to .PDF in a few seconds.
- Download your new .PDF file.
What to expect
- All layers are merged into flat rasterized pixels - you cannot recover separate layers from the PDF.
- Transparent areas in the
.xcfbecome white in the PDF, since the format has no transparency support. - For print output, set the canvas to 300 DPI in GIMP via Image > Print Size before exporting, or the result may look blurry when printed.
Frequently asked questions
Will my GIMP layers remain editable in the PDF?
No - the PDF contains a flat rasterized image. Keep the
.xcf file if you need to continue editing.Can I export each layer as a separate PDF page?
Yes. In GIMP's PDF export dialog, check "Layers as pages" and each visible layer becomes one page in the PDF.
Why does the exported PDF look blurry when printed?
GIMP exports at screen resolution (72-96 DPI) by default. Go to Image > Print Size, set 300 DPI, then export again.
Is text selectable in the PDF?
No - GIMP rasterizes text layers, so text in the PDF is pixels and cannot be selected or searched.
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