Got Vector Graphics?

What are vector graphics?

Vector graphics are simply images that are created using points to make mathematical paths. These paths can be adjusted to create the shapes in the design. Fonts also contain paths. See the animation below that shows the paths in the design and the final design when color is added. Vector graphics can easily be scaled without a loss of quality and are preferred for screen printing graphics on rubber.

How do I create vector graphics?

Vector graphics are created using computer software. Adobe Illustrator is the most common application that graphic designers and artists use. Other programs like GIMP, Corel Draw, Sketch or Adobe Capture can also create vector files. If you know a graphic designer or work with a local printer, they use Adobe Illustrator software daily.

What if I don’t use this software or know anyone that can create vector graphics for me?

If you have original artwork like a sketch or painting or even a photograph of your design, there are different programs on the Internet that can help you create a vector file. Some of these vector converter programs are free of charge while others may have a nominal fee. Here are some options:

• Path
• Vector Magic
• Vectorizer
• Adobe Express
• Adobe Capture (Mobile App)

Keep in mind that most of the vector files that GBR would use for printing your custom rubber products are only one or two colors. Full color artwork is typically provided in a RASTER graphic format. More on that below.

At this time, GBR does not provide custom design services or vector conversions. If you have a vector graphic created (see preferred file formats below) and would like GBR to review the file, you can email it to us at GBR@jiffystandpad.com. 

 

Vector file formats and fonts

If you have a graphic designer you are working with and can provide vector artwork...

GBR prefers to have your clean vector artwork in a PDF file format first. EPS or AI (Adobe Illustrator) would be next.

Your designer can easily supply all of these formats. All fonts in your design also need to be paths like the artwork shown above. If this is not done, the fonts in your design may not load correctly since there are THOUSANDS of fonts available. GBR more than likely will not have your specific font. It is easiest to just have your designer make the font into paths.

 

What are raster graphics?

Raster graphics are images that are created using color pixels in a rectangular grid. Photographs, digital illustrations and most images you see on the Internet or view on your phone are raster graphics. If you scan a document or a drawing, the scan is created from pixels and is a raster graphic.

Raster graphics are most commonly required when printing full-color artwork (unless your vector logo is designed with full-color!) GBR offers full-color vinyl stickers and custom t-shirts. Both of the products may use raster graphics for final artwork.  Here is what a raster image looks like.

Note: The image is shown in a lower quality to see the pixels in the design:

How are raster graphics created?

There are a number of ways that pixel-based graphics can be developed. The most common method is by taking a photograph or scanning an image. Adobe Photoshop is a common software application that graphic designers and artists use to create illustrations and digital artwork. Other programs that can create raster artwork include: Corel Painter, GIMP, paint.NET and Affinity.

Unlike vector graphics, raster graphics are resolution dependent. This means that the quality of the image is dependent on the resolution of the raster file at full size. Resolution is determined by the number of pixels in one square inch. Typically, "high res" artwork is created at 300 ppi (pixels per inch) at the final size the artwork is needed. 

Example: If you were to submit artwork to GBR for a full-color sticker design, the artwork needs to be saved at the actual size of the sticker (3.5 diameter circle) with a resolution of 300 ppi. This will ensure your artwork prints cleanly. If your artwork is saved at a lower resolution, say 72 ppi, your image will look blurry and not very clean (see raster logo above).

GBR prefers to have your high resolution raster artwork in TIFF or PNG file format first. JPEG would be next. All raster files should be saved as CMYK files. RGB color raster files will be converted to CMYK for printing.

 

Green Bay Rubber offers a limited selection of stock graphics for select products that can be personalized. These products include: Memorial Kickstand Pad, Stock Floor Mats, and Custom Word T-Shirts.

We look forward to custom printing your original design soon!