One topic that we often receive questions about relates to artwork and logo files.
One topic that we often receive questions about relates to artwork and logo files. Sending the correct art file not only results in the best quality signs and graphics, but also keeps art fees down by giving our designers the right tools needed to efficiently set up artwork for production.
The terms “raster” and “vector” may not be familiar, but they are essential when it comes to your logo and artwork. Many people don’t realize what different logo files are for, and that’s ok. We don’t expect you to. There are a multitude of file types to choose from – png, svg, jpg, and eps, along with other file extensions. We’re here to help explain the difference between files, what they are used for and why it’s good to have both raster and vector artwork.
Vector art is also known as scalable vector graphics (SVG). It is the file type that our designers prefer and often require when creating your sign and vinyl projects. Vector art is composed of anchored dots and line art that’s been created by a designer using vector-based software such as Adobe Illustrator. The graphics are scalable to any size without losing mathematical proportions because they do not rely on pixels.
Vector art is necessary in the sign industry, due to the large graphics that are used in creating the life-size, visible signage and vehicle graphics that you see on our website and social media. Vinyl and sign substrates are cut or routed, using equipment such as plotters and CNC machines, which in turn use computer software to “read” the vector files. Vector art files most often end with a file extension .eps, .ai or .svg.
Raster artwork is an image file composed of a fixed number of pixels, or tiny dots, that use different colors and tone to create the image. Photos from your phone, or artwork created in Adobe Photoshop will generate raster-based image files. When enlarged, the image becomes fuzzy, and the pixels will become apparent like squares on a tiny checkerboard. Pixels per inch (PPI) are also referred to as resolution. More ppi results in a better-quality image and resolution, but also comes with a large file size. Our production equipment cannot cut or route the shapes created in a raster image, which is why we encourage vector art files for most signage. Raster files are best for fine photographic prints with complex colors and gradients.
Our designers most frequently use raster image files for wall murals or vehicle graphics. Professional or high-quality photography is recommended, and the image ppi must be prominent enough to enlarge the photo without it becoming pixelated. File types composed of raster art often end with .jpg, .png, .tiff, .bmp, and .gif.
Over the last few years, programs such as Canva have opened the world of graphic design for creative DIY individuals to make logos, decals, and signage without the expense of professional design software. It is fun to experiment and create your own designs using the provided templates. We recommend that you purchase a plan that will support vector file output, so there are no issues when it comes time to create your new signage.
If you have any questions about file types, our professional graphic design team is happy to help. Of course, we love to create and hope that you’ll let us help with your next project!
