What is the Import Tool?
How to Use the Import Tool
Open the Import Tool
Click the Import button in your toolbar to open the import dialogue window.
Choose Your Source
Select where you want to import from: your device, Google Drive, or Microsoft OneDrive. Cloud sources require you to be signed in.
Select Your File
Browse and select the file you want to import. For cloud sources, only files in your MyDrawings folder will appear.
Import and Position
The file will be added to your canvas, typically in the centre. Use the Select tool to move, resize, or adjust it as needed.
Supported File Formats
The Import Tool supports different file types depending on the source:
• PNG, JPG, JPEG
• GIF, BMP, WebP
Images are converted to SVG format. Maximum file size: 10MB
• Must be in MyDrawings folder
• Maximum dimensions: 5000×5000 pixels
Other image formats coming soon
Import Sources
- All supported file types
- Downloaded images and SVGs
- Quick local imports
- No internet needed
- Cloud-saved drawings
- Work from any device
- Team shared files
- Previous SVG projects
- Microsoft users
- Office integration
- Business accounts
- Synchronised SVG drawings
Import Dialogue Window
Choose a source...
Import vs Open
Understanding the difference:
• Keeps your existing work
• Combines multiple files
• Perfect for templates
• Builds complex scenes
• Starts fresh with file
• One file at a time
• Clears the canvas
• Loads complete project
Pro Tips!
• Build templates: Save common elements as separate files and import them as needed
• Layer artwork: Import backgrounds first, then add foreground elements
• Combine styles: Import drawings from different artists to create collaborations
• Reuse elements: Save frequently used shapes or logos to import later
• Check positioning: Imported content appears in the centre and may need adjustment
• Save before import: Always save your current work before importing large files
Important Notes
• Cloud storage imports require you to be signed in
• Files must be in the MyDrawings folder for cloud sources
• Cloud storage only supports SVG files currently
• Maximum file size is 10MB for all imports
• SVG files have security limits: maximum 1,000 elements and 5,000×5,000 pixel dimensions
• Large imports may take a moment to process
• Imported elements might need repositioning or resizing
Creative Uses for Import
Perfect for:
- Collages: Combine multiple drawings and photos into one artwork
- Backgrounds: Import scenic backgrounds for your characters
- Stamps: Create a library of reusable stamps and icons
- Comics: Import panels and speech bubbles
- Presentations: Build slides by importing elements
- Team projects: Combine work from multiple people
Common Import Workflows:
- Create or import a background scene
- Import character drawings or photos
- Import decorative elements
- Add text and final touches
- Save the complete composition
Common Questions
Why can't I see my Google Drive files?
Make sure you're signed in to Google and have allowed School Draw to access your Drive. Only SVG files in the "MyDrawings" folder will appear for import.
Can I import PNG or JPEG images from cloud storage?
Currently, cloud storage import only works with SVG files. However, you can import PNG, JPEG, and other image formats from your device, and they'll be automatically converted to SVG format.
Where do imported elements appear?
Imported content is added on top of your current work, usually in the centre of your viewport. You can use the Select tool to move and resize them.
Can I undo an import?
Yes! Use the Undo button (Ctrl+Z or Cmd+Z) immediately after importing if you want to remove the imported content.
Why is my imported image the wrong size?
The tool automatically scales large imports to fit reasonably on screen. Use the Select tool to resize them to your desired size.
Can I import multiple files at once?
Currently, you need to import files one at a time. Import the first file, position it, then import the next one.
What happens when I import a regular image file?
Images from your device (PNG, JPEG, etc.) are automatically converted to SVG format by wrapping them in an SVG container. This allows them to work with the vector-based drawing tools.
Why was my SVG file rejected?
SVG files have security limits to protect you from malicious content. Files are rejected if they exceed 10MB, contain more than 1,000 elements, have dimensions larger than 5,000×5,000 pixels, or contain potentially dangerous elements like scripts.