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Alpha-Resource Vector Graphics

Rastor vs. Vector

There are mainly two types of computer graphics:  RASTOR and VECTOR.  This determines how the image will be rendered, either in pixels (rastorized) or points, curves, lines and shapes (vectorized).  The image’s file type can sometimes be an indicator of which graphics format is used, but not always.

Why do we need a vector image?

Screen printing process requires vector formatted image files.  The major advantage is versatility.  A vector image can be scaled to any size and rendered on almost any medium.

Rastor images, made up of many small pixels, when enlarging and reproducing will become distorted, blurry, or “pixelated”.  But, because vector images utilize mathematical coordinates (vectors) to “map” an image, it can be enlarged and reproduced to any size without distortion.

Screen printing and thermal heat transfer printing vendors typically will ask for an ‘EPS’ file. Most will also accept ‘PDF’ if it is in vector format.
A file that we think is vector should be checked to see if it is usable.
A print-ready file must be:
1. 100% vector graphics
2. Solid elements (all elements for print must be separate solid elements for each color required).
3. If it is multicolor, then the colors must be separated.
4. Preferably .eps or .pdf

Vector Graphics File Types

Many graphics applications can generate either rastor or vector images, so an image file could be a COMPOUND image, having a mixture of formats. The ‘SVG’ file type is always vector format only.

Always Vector Graphics File Extensions:

.svg (Scalable Vector Graphics)

svgz (XML Compressed SVG)

Common Compound Graphics File Extensions:

.eps (Encapsulated PostScript)
.ai (Adobe Illustrator)
.pdf (Vectorized PDF)
.cdr (Corel Draw)

Converting Your Image To Vector

Alpha-Resource will be happy to convert your artwork to vector format.

Contact us to check your artwork.  We will confirm with you if your image is ready for print.  If your image requires any additional work, a cost estimate will be returned for making your artwork ready for print.

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Vector Art Conversion

Standard Charge: $30.00

*May be additional charge for multiple colors or complex images.