Variables Importer, SVG format

[Kangi Sportswear]

Hello everyone.

I'm currently using the Variable Importer 8 script.

Does anyone know if i can use a SVG file for the image variable?

When i select the prepend image path in the log it says the image is missing even though it's there.

The script seems pretty complex to me but maybe someone can adjust it to add SVG as compatible format.

Here's the script: https://github.com/Silly-V/Adobe-Illustrator/blob/master/Variable%20Importer/VariableImporter.jsx

Thanks in advance to everyone willing to help me!

Cheers!

[Mylenium]

The import options would indeed have to be adapted to use of other files by defining the importer functions and variables. In this case it seems the getScriptImage() function needs to be modified accordingly. Not sure which specific options the SVG dialog requires, though.

Mylenium

[Kangi Sportswear]

Hi @Mylenium and thank you for replying.

Unfortunately i have no enough skill to work on this pretty complex script.

A couple of weeks ago I tried to reach out to @Silly-V, who is the creator of the script, cause I had problems using EPS format images, thus here I am, trying to use SVG. But he didn't respond and I don't want to write to him again cause I don't want to bother him. But I hope he can read this and tell me if there's a solution.

He or anyone skilled enough to work on this script!

Anyway, thanks and cheers!

[Silly-V]

I was away on 'business' for some years, but if you remember what the SVG-path issue was - let me know, I may be able to fix it up.

[Mylenium]

I'm not that steeped in AI scripting and can only tell you these things from my generic knowledge of scripting in other apps or the web. I'm sure I could figure it out, given enough time, but this is really one heck of a script to chew through and looking up the correct code for the import would be it's own research...

Mylenium 

[Rajcousa_Rajcousa1121]

Hi Kangi,

I’ve worked with the Variable Importer script before, and from my experience, Illustrator doesn’t natively support SVG files as variable images in the same way it does with raster formats (like JPG, PNG, TIFF, etc.). That’s why you’re seeing the “image missing” error — the script is looking for a supported raster format.

A workaround you could try:

• Convert your SVGs into high-resolution PNGs or TIFFs before importing.

• Keep the converted images in a dedicated folder and point the Variable Importer path there.

• If you want to retain vector scalability, you may need to manually link SVGs into your template rather than through the variables panel.

It’s not as elegant, but it avoids compatibility issues. Unless someone rewrites parts of the script to add SVG support, this is usually the safest route.

By the way, I totally get where you’re coming from. In our line of work with custom sportswear manufacturing, we also deal with vector graphics daily — from team logos to complex design patterns. While SVG is great for scalability, most production workflows (like sublimation printing or embroidery setup) still require raster conversions at some point. So, even in apparel design, we often prep both raster and vector versions depending on the process.

Hope this helps clear things up a bit!

Cheers,
Hamid Jadoon

[Silly-V]

The new plugin "Darty-Ai" at https://darty.ai now imports the SVGs, which have a special advantage! Their layer-names are preserved and lend the imported structure to be further manipulable by Darty-Ai. Such as: import an SVG, then move around one of the contained shapes, by name. Or, import an SVG and change all the colors on all the shapes, maybe even add extra strokes or set a new effect on a particular object.