Editable text contains characters and a reference to a font. Convert it to outlines so the letter shapes can be produced reliably. Each letter then consists of vector paths the portal can read.
Create letter outlines
First save a version in which you can still edit the text. Select the text and use the command for outlines or paths. In Illustrator, choose Type > Create Outlines. In Inkscape, choose Path > Object to Path.
After conversion, you can no longer change the letters with the text cursor, but you can edit their paths and nodes. Embedding a font in a PDF does not replace this step.
Check the inside of each letter
A, B and O have internal contours. For area engraving, those openings should remain visible in the engraved image. For cut-out text, the internal pieces fall out of the sheet. If you are making a stencil, add material bridges to keep them attached. Read about designing a paint stencil.
A warning about skipped text
The portal may report that a text element was skipped and needs converting to outlines. In the Dutch interface, the message reads: ‘Eén tekstelement is overgeslagen; zet tekst om naar contouren.’ Other vector paths may still have been imported. Open the design details, convert the missing text in your source file and upload the new version.
Compare the letters with your original, then assign cutting, line engraving or area engraving to each line colour. For small text, view the design at its actual output size. The drawing guidelines explain how to specify operations.