CDR is proprietary to CorelDRAW
CDR is the native file format of CorelDRAW. Its internal structure is closed, so the reliable way to create a CDR is to open or import your artwork in CorelDRAW and save it there.
Need a CDR from a RAW? Here's why that isn't a direct conversion — and the editable formats that get you there.
You can't convert a RAW to CDR — CDR is CorelDRAW's own format, and only CorelDRAW writes it.
CDR is the native file format of CorelDRAW. Its internal structure is closed, so the reliable way to create a CDR is to open or import your artwork in CorelDRAW and save it there.
Even after importing, a RAW is pixels — not the editable shapes, text and layers a CDR is designed to hold. So a direct RAW → CDR conversion wouldn't give you a truly editable document anyway.
A raw file is the unprocessed data straight from a camera’s sensor, keeping maximum detail and dynamic range before it is developed into a JPG or PNG. “RAW” isn’t one format — each maker has its own (CR2, NEF, ARW…).
How to open RAW files open in Lightroom, Photoshop / Camera Raw, Capture One and each camera maker’s software.
CDR is CorelDRAW’s native vector format for logos, layouts and print artwork — proprietary to Corel software.
How to open CDR opens in CorelDRAW; convert images to CDR to join a Corel workflow.
Full CDR format guide