What are vectors?

What are vectors and what makes them so versatile?

Nowadays, there are different types of graphic files. The best known of these files are, for example, .jpg and .png files. For these file types, these are graphic files that use pixels. In itself, that's no problem, but it can become one when you want to enlarge them significantly, for example. For promotional purposes outside of the internet, it's often a requirement to use so-called vectors. But what are these exactly and what makes these graphic files so interesting? We're happy to tell you on this page.

Raster and vector images

We can divide the static images that exist into two different categories. First, these are raster images. In addition, there are also vector images. At first glance, both file types seem the same, but don't be mistaken. The most important difference between both is found in the fact that raster images are stored by your computer in pixels.

At the moment the file is opened, it will be loaded pixel by pixel. That doesn't apply to vector images. With these files, there are so-called "paths". These can be defined by a start and end point between which there are also other points. This ensures that all points are connected by lines. For this reason, vectors are also often referred to as line drawings.

Not dependent on resolutions

The structure of vectors ensures that, unlike raster files, they are not dependent on resolutions. This actually means that a vector always has the best resolution, no matter how large or small it may be. It's partly for this reason that fonts are always vectorial.

When do you need vectors?

The moment you're going to print things, there's a good chance you'll need to have a vector file. This is certainly the case for various, specific printing techniques with color separations. Think here not only of screen printing on garments, but also of pad printing and pantone print work. With these forms of print work, it's always a requirement to be able to define the color separations as optimally as possible for the printing machines. Due to the fact that vectors are constructed as line drawings, these are also the only usable files to cut materials or stickers in contours.

Saving as a different file type doesn't make your design vectorial!

Saving as a different file type doesn't make your design vectorial! According to many people, it's very easy to get a vector file. They simply choose to save their .jpg or .png file as, for example, .ai, .pdf, or .eps. One then assumes that the file is automatically vectorized, but that's not correct. We can, however, accomplish this for you! So deliver your digital file to us and we'll make sure it's converted to a vector file in the most efficient way! Do you need a vector file quickly? We're happy to think along with you and also deliver on weekends!