Image Converter

Convert CDR to XCF

Want an XCF from your CDR? Here's why it needs GIMP — and the layered format that works everywhere.

You can't convert a CDR to XCF here — XCF is GIMP's own working format, written by GIMP itself.

Why CDR to XCF isn't possible here

1

XCF is GIMP's native format

XCF (eXperimental Computing Facility) stores GIMP's full working state — layers, masks, paths and channels. It's the GIMP equivalent of Photoshop's PSD, and GIMP is what creates it.

2

A CDR has no layers to keep

A CDR is a single flattened image. Saving it as XCF wouldn't add the layered, editable structure XCF exists for — so for most needs a standard format is the better target.

Format details

What is a CDR file?

CDR is CorelDRAW’s native vector format for logos, layouts and print artwork — proprietary to Corel software.

Full name
CorelDRAW Image
Developed by
Corel
Released
1989
Extension
.cdr
MIME type
application/cdr
Transparency
Yes

How to open CDR opens in CorelDRAW; convert images to CDR to join a Corel workflow.

Full CDR format guide

What is a XCF file?

XCF is GIMP’s native format preserving layers, paths and channels — the open-source equivalent of PSD.

Full name
GIMP Image
Developed by
GIMP Team
Released
1995
Extension
.xcf
MIME type
image/x-xcf
Transparency
Yes

How to open XCF opens in GIMP; export to PNG or PSD for other apps.

Full XCF format guide

What you can do instead

Frequently asked questions

Can any tool convert CDR to XCF?
Not a real one. XCF is GIMP-specific; the dependable way to get an .xcf is to open your image in GIMP (free and open-source) and save it. SharkFoto can read XCF as a source, but doesn't write it.
I want layers — what format should I use?
Convert your CDR to PSD. PSD is the layered format the widest range of editors — Photoshop, GIMP, Photopea, Affinity — can open.
What can I convert my CDR to instead?
CDR converts to PSD, PNG, JPG, TIFF and more — free and instant.