Frequently Asked Questions

Vector files are infinitely scalable images that are mostly used for printing purposes. The basic unit of a vector file is path/curve, which is based upon a mathematical formula. The most commonly used vector file formats are ai, eps, pdf, svg, and cdr.

Bitmap and raster files are pixel-based image formats widely used on the web and digital devices. The most common bitmap files are jpg, jpeg, png, gif, bmp, or tiff.

Vector conversion, also known as vectorization, is the process of transforming bitmap graphics into vector graphics. Unlike a simple file format conversion, this process fundamentally alters image data by transforming pixels into vector paths/curves.

A vector converter, vector tracer, auto-tracer, or vectorization tool is a software that is used to convert bitmap images into vector images.

A vector file looks good at any resolution - There should be zero pixelation or blurriness when you zoom in on a vectorized image. Vector files, unlike bitmap images, have editing nodes that you can easily spot when you open them in vector editing software.

Bitmap images consist of tiny dots called pixels. Vector images, on the other hand, are made up of paths and geometrical objects. Vectors are primarily used for printing, whereas bitmaps are more suitable for computer and web usage.

You can vectorize your logo, sketch, drawing, illustration, blueprint, icon, photo, painting, sign, banner, emblem, stamp, vinyl decal, badge, sticker, t-shirt design, scanned image etc...

If you want to print, engrave, or simply enlarge your design, then you should definitely use vector files. Vector images can be scaled to any size without a reduction in quality.

If you want your image to look perfect after printing, then you should definitely consider vector files - these files retain their clarity at any print size. Additionally, some printing or cutting techniques are not possible without vector files.

Manual vectorization, or hand-drawn vectorization, is a process that involves a graphic designer redrawing an image into a vector format by hand. This type of vectorization is superior to vector tracing.

You can find multiple free vectorization tools on the web, vectorization.eu is one of them.

There are two options - you can either use vector tracing software, or manually redraw an image using vector editing software.

Graphic editors are computer programs that process bitmap and vector images. The most common bitmap editors are Adobe Photoshop, Gimp and Corel Photo-Paint. Top picks amongst vector editors are Adobe Illustrator, Corel-Draw and Inkscape.

PDF is the most widely used vector file. This format is well known by many people because text documents and e-books are stored using this format. PDF files can be exported from Microsoft Office and most printing software can read this format.