How to compress SVG files for Scratch - dealing with file size limits
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FileOptimizer_Emma
Posted on July 20, 2025 • Intermediate
📁 Help! SVG file too large for Scratch project!
I’m having a major issue with my art project in Scratch. I created this amazing detailed artwork as an SVG file, but it’s over 6.1MB and my project just won’t save! 😭
Here’s my situation:
- The artwork has lots of vibrant colors and complex details
- It’s currently 6,100+ KB (over 6MB)
- Scratch won’t let me save the project because of the size limit
- I tried using online compressors but they’re not working effectively
- I really don’t want to lose all the detail in my artwork
Does anyone know effective ways to compress SVG files to get under the 5MB limit? I’ve put so much work into this piece and I’m really frustrated! Any help would be greatly appreciated! 🙏
SVGOptimizer_David
Replied 15 minutes later • ⭐ Best Answer
I totally understand your frustration @FileOptimizer_Emma! SVG file size issues are common with complex artwork. Let me give you several effective solutions to get your file under the 5MB limit.
📊 Understanding Scratch File Limits
First, let’s clarify Scratch’s file size limits:
🛠️ Solution 1: SVG Code Optimization
SVGs are actually code files, so we can optimize the code directly:
- Remove unnecessary metadata and comments
- Simplify path data (reduce decimal places)
- Remove unused definitions and groups
- Combine similar paths
- Use shorter attribute names where possible
🎨 Solution 2: Artwork Simplification Techniques
Reduce complexity while maintaining visual quality:
- Reduce path points: Use fewer anchor points in complex curves
- Simplify gradients: Use fewer color stops in gradients
- Merge overlapping shapes: Combine shapes that overlap completely
- Remove hidden elements: Delete shapes completely covered by others
- Use symbols: Convert repeated elements to reusable symbols
⚡ Solution 3: Online SVG Optimizers
Try these powerful online tools (use them in sequence for best results):
- SVGO Online: Removes unnecessary code and optimizes paths
- SVG Minifier: Compresses SVG code without quality loss
- Vecta.io Nano: Advanced SVG optimization with preview
- SVG-Edit: Manual editing with optimization features
🔄 Solution 4: Split Into Multiple Files
If optimization isn’t enough, split your artwork strategically:
Smart Splitting Strategy:
• Background elements → File 1 (2-3MB)
• Foreground details → File 2 (2-3MB)
• Special effects/overlays → File 3 (if needed)
Layer them in Scratch using different sprites with proper z-ordering
🖼️ Solution 5: Hybrid Approach (SVG + PNG)
For complex backgrounds with simple foregrounds:
- Convert background to PNG: Complex detailed backgrounds compress well as PNG
- Keep foreground as SVG: Simple shapes and text stay crisp as SVG
- Use appropriate resolution: 2x or 3x resolution for PNG to maintain quality
🎯 Solution 6: Advanced Optimization Techniques
For maximum compression:
Pro Tips:
• Use <use> elements for repeated patterns
• Convert complex filters to simpler alternatives
• Use CSS classes instead of inline styles
• Optimize color values (use hex instead of rgb)
• Remove unnecessary precision in coordinates
📱 Solution 7: Alternative Workflow
If all else fails, consider this approach:
- Export as high-res PNG: 300 DPI or higher
- Use PNG compression tools: TinyPNG or similar
- Import to Scratch: Often results in smaller file sizes
- Keep original SVG: Save externally for future edits
Remember: Always backup your original file before making any changes! You can often achieve 50-70% size reduction with proper optimization. 🎉
FileOptimizer_Emma
Replied 1 hour later
@SVGOptimizer_David This is incredibly helpful! 🤩
I tried the SVGO online tool first and it reduced my file from 6.1MB to 4.2MB - that’s a huge improvement! Then I used the manual optimization tips to remove some hidden elements I didn’t even know were there.
My project finally saves now! I ended up with a 3.8MB file that looks exactly the same as the original. Thank you so much for the detailed explanation! 🙏
ArtistHelper_Maya
Replied 2 hours later
Great solution thread! 🎨 As a digital artist, I’d like to add some creative tips:
- Layer management: Group related elements to make splitting easier
- Color palette optimization: Reduce the number of unique colors used
- Gradient simplification: Use 2-3 color stops instead of complex gradients
- Pattern reuse: Convert repeated decorative elements to symbols
Sometimes the artistic approach to optimization works better than technical tools alone! 🖌️
TechExpert_Ryan
Replied 3 hours later
Excellent technical breakdown @SVGOptimizer_David! 👨💻
One additional tip: if you’re comfortable with code, you can manually edit the SVG in a text editor to:
- Remove XML comments and metadata
- Shorten attribute names (x=“100” instead of x-coordinate=“100”)
- Use relative path commands (l, c, s) instead of absolute ones when possible
- Round coordinates to fewer decimal places
This can often squeeze out an extra 10-20% size reduction! 🔧
Vibelf_Community
Pinned Message • Moderator
🎨 Master File Optimization & Project Management!
Great discussion on SVG optimization and file management! For those working with complex projects and large assets, our community provides:
- 📁 Advanced file optimization and compression techniques
- 🎨 Professional digital art workflow optimization
- ⚡ Performance optimization for large Scratch projects
- 🛠️ Custom tools and scripts for batch optimization
📚 Related Discussions
- How to optimize Scratch projects for better performance?
- Best practices for managing large art assets
- Advanced image compression techniques for games
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