I would like to take the attached file (the top picture) and convert it so I can draw this image using my CNC machine. I want to draw images like this with a pen, sharpie, pencil etc. The program I use to convert the file to G-code for the CNC machine accepts .dxf files. The issue is that when I save this file within Inkscape to a .dxf, it opens in the CNC program as a double line. (see dog1 pic). The CNC machine draws this file just fine but it does not fill in the same areas as the original picture does. It basically draws an outline  that looks just like the dog1 pic. 

Is there a way to have Inkscape make this file so it draws out on my CNC to look like the original picture? How do I do that? If not, can you recomend a software that can? Please don't suggest Aspire or VCarve pro as they are WAYYYYYYYYY to expensive.

Thank you

Bill

Try https://github.com/fablabnbg/inkscape-centerline-trace or use the beta version of Inkscape 1.0 (currently beta2) that has this integrated into the Trace Bitmap dialog.

Thank you Maren. I will download it and try it. Are there any tutotials or instructions on how to use this?

Visit the linked web page and read it :)

Thanks Maren but I did read it. The instructions seem unclear to me. I have attached an image showing the results of the trace bitmap and as you can see it drew a single line which is what I am looking for BUT, the eyes, eye brows, mouth fill in parts are missing. So how do I get it to trace the bitmap so it is EXACTLY like the jpeg image?

Adjust the original by removing the black fill in the nose area - or draw that part yourself. Inkscape / the extension can only do either centerline tracing or area tracing, not both at once.

Ok...The areas in question are black, The lines are black. How do I remove the filled areas and leave the outline of the filled areas?

You would either need to edit the JPG in a raster graphics editor (like GIMP), to remove the black fill, before you send it through the trace engine; or draw in the lines yourself (after it's traced) using Inkscape's Pen tool.  You can trace over the JPG, so you don't have to draw it freehand.