Raster vs vector artwork: which file do you need for printing?

Pixels versus paths

A raster image is a grid of colored pixels. JPG, PNG, GIF and most photos are raster. They hold a fixed amount of detail, so enlarging them makes edges look soft or blocky.

A vector image is a set of mathematical paths and fills. AI, EPS, SVG and vector PDF files are common examples. Because the shapes are described by curves, they can be scaled from a business card to a banner without losing sharpness.

When raster is fine

Photographs, textured illustrations and soft shading are naturally raster. For digital printing, a raster file can work well if its resolution is high enough for the final size. A common rule of thumb for print is around 300 pixels per inch at the printed size, though requirements vary by process.

When you want vector

Logos, lettering and flat-color marks belong in vector form. Several decorating methods rely on clean outlines and separated colors.

Vector art also makes edits simple, such as changing a color, resizing a mark or isolating one element.

• Screen printing and vinyl cutting need clean outlines
• Embroidery digitizing works best from clear shapes
• Patches benefit from separated, flat colors

Signs your logo needs a redraw

Zoom in to a few hundred percent. If edges show stair steps, halos or fuzzy noise, the file is too low in resolution to trace automatically with good results.

Automatic tracing can produce uneven curves and extra points. A manual redraw rebuilds the shapes deliberately, which gives smoother curves and a file that is easier to edit later.

Preparing files to send

Send the best version you have, even if it looks poor, along with any older files, brand guides or fonts. Mention where the artwork will be used so the redraw can be built with that process in mind.

Ask for common deliverables such as AI, EPS, SVG or PDF, and keep the original raster for reference. Convert text to outlines if you share your own vector files, so lettering does not change when fonts are missing.