Request: Command-Line Interface (CLI) Tool for Batch Exporting .lbrn2 Projects

MillMage Software Questions
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Hello LightBurn Team,

First of all, thank you for creating such a powerful and intuitive tool — LightBurn is an essential part of our workflow for laser cutting and engraving.

I’m writing to submit a feature request that would greatly benefit developers, integrators, and automation-focused users:

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Could you please consider releasing a command-line interface (CLI) tool or headless mode for LightBurn?

:bullseye: Use Case:

Many users (including us) need to automate the export of .lbrn2 projects to standard vector formats like:

  • SVG
  • DXF
  • PDF

Currently, this requires manual steps in the GUI (File → Export), which is time-consuming for batch processing, server-side workflows, or integration with web applications.

A CLI tool would allow:

bash

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lightburn-cli --input project.lbrn2 --export-format svg,dxf,pdf --output ./exports/

:light_bulb: Potential Benefits:

  • Automation: Integrate LightBurn into CI/CD, cloud platforms, or production pipelines.
  • Batch processing: Convert hundreds of .lbrn2 files without opening the GUI.
  • Server-side rendering: Enable web apps to generate outputs from .lbrn2 safely and reliably.
  • Better interoperability: Help users migrate or share designs across different CAD/CAM systems.

:locked_with_key: Security & Licensing:

We understand the need to protect your software. The CLI tool could:

  • Require a valid license (online or offline activation).
  • Run only on licensed machines.
  • Include watermarking or restrictions in unlicensed mode.

:wrench: Alternative: Extend Macro System

If a standalone CLI isn’t feasible, could you enhance the Python macro system to allow:

  • Loading .lbrn2 files programmatically?
  • Running exports without GUI interaction?
  • Calling macros directly from the terminal?

For example:

bash

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lightburn --run-macro=export_all.py --project=myfile.lbrn2

This feature would be a game-changer for developers building tools around LightBurn and for businesses scaling laser operations.

Thank you for your hard work and continued support of the community.
We’d be happy to test early versions or provide feedback.

Best regards

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This was posted a while back.

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We’re aware of the desire for more API-level communication with LightBurn and MillMage, and have plans to realize that.

Given that AI was clearly used to write this inquiry, it doesn’t give us a ton of information about why you want it, but rather why whatever tool used would think it’s a good idea. So, if you have specific needs, let us know in your own words please!

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