Vector file

A vector file describes shapes, lines and text mathematically instead of as pixels, so it can be scaled to any size without losing sharpness. Print-ready packaging artwork should be vector-based.

Vector vs raster

JPG and PNG files are made of pixels and become jagged when enlarged. Logos, text, line art and solid areas should be vector; photos remain raster images placed inside the vector file at sufficient resolution.

Accepted formats

AI (Illustrator) and print-ready PDF are the most common, with EPS still used. Check with your converter's prepress team which formats and versions they accept.

Print-ready checklist

• Outline fonts or supply them with the file.
• Define CMYK, Pantone, white and varnish as separate named colours.
• Use high-resolution images at final size.
• Place artwork at 1:1 on the supplier's dieline, with bleed.
• Keep barcodes vector and single-colour.

Only have a JPG logo?

Ask a designer to redraw it as vector. It is a one-off investment you can reuse on all packaging and marketing materials, and clean files shorten prepress time.