Why do we need a Vector file of your brand’s logo?

The value of a Vector logo boils down to two parts: flexibility and scalability. Vector logos are flexible because they can be output to just about any common Raster image format (jpg, png, gif, tiff, etc.). Vector logos are also scalable in size allowing them to be enlarged to fit the side of a blimp or reduced to the size of a business card without jeopardizing quality.

Vector graphics vs Bitmap/Raster graphics

There are numerous Raster graphic formats, and the strengths and weaknesses of each is a post of it’s own. The real benefit of a Vector graphic over Raster graphic is obvious once an image is scaled larger than its original size.

Notice the quality of the Vector format is maintained as it’s magnified, whereas the Raster format looks terrible.

Raster graphics can be scaled down in size and typically maintain their quality. Once you start increasing the size of a Raster graphic, the quality degrades dramatically and you will have a very blurry version of your logo. This is a common problem and is a critical reason to have your logo in Vector format.

Whenever a Raster version of your logo is requested, use the Vector version to generate the output. This will ensure the absolute highest quality and accurate representation of your brand.

File Requirements

Please remember, depending on the fabrication of your project, depends on the file needed.

All 3D Dimensional signage requires “Vector” artwork, all Flat Printed signage can be either Vector or Bitmap artwork.

Vector File Requirements

Please note the following when preparing electronic art files that you will be sending to us for 3D Dimensional Signage. We support both PC and Mac platforms and most commonly used graphics software. Files can be saved in their native format as follows:

  • .EPS Vector file of any type including Illustrator
  • .AI – Adobe Illustrator
  • .PDF Vector
  • .CDR – Corel Draw
  • .WMF – Windows Metafile

Whenever possible send artwork as vector art. Please “Convert Fonts to Outlines” or “Convert Fonts to Curves”, this allows for easy scaling and color corrections. When using Postscript fonts (Type 1 fonts) please supply both screen and printer fonts.

Bitmap / Digital Printing File Requirements
Please note the following when preparing electronic art files for printing that you will be sending to us. Your artwork must be “FULL SIZE” at 300 dpi (dots per inch)
We support both PC and Mac platforms and most commonly used graphics software. Files can be saved in their native format as follows:
  • .EPS of any type including Illustrator and PhotoShop
  • .AI – Adobe Illustrator
  • .PSD – PhotoShop
  • .PDF – Adobe Acrobat
  • .TIFF – Tagged Image File Format
  • .CDR – CorelDraw, any format (v. 10)

Typical Vector Design Software

Color & Fonts

PMS – Pantone Spot Colors

If you want specific color matches then PMS Pantone Spot colors must be specified within the file and on your hard copy proof. We will match PMS colors as closely as possible although we may not be able to color correct embedded/placed art files.

IF COLOR MATCHES ARE NOT SPECIFIED THEN WE WILL ASSUME THAT EXACT COLOR MATCHING IS NOT CRITICAL!

Whenever possible send your files in “layers,” so that if color corrections are required we can go into the various layers as necessary to do so. Artwork that is sent as a “flat file” with all design elements in one layer cannot be color- corrected or “tweaked” by us.

Please include all images that have been placed or imported into the final layout of your file. These images files are important to the quality of your final print.

Whenever possible send artwork as vector art, with all fonts saved in outline form. This allows for easy scaling and color corrections.

Fonts / Typestyles

Be sure to include all fonts used in your artwork. Whenever possible send artwork as vector art. Please “Convert Fonts to Outlines” or “Convert Fonts to Curves”, this allows for easy scaling and color corrections. When using Postscript fonts (Type 1 fonts) please supply both screen and printer fonts.

Scanned images should be scanned at no less than 300 dpi (dots per inch) at 1/4 size of the final printed piece. Remember that resolution goes down by same factor as the enlargement you request. A 300 dpi original enlarged to five times the original size will have a finished resolution of 60 dpi.

Call us @ 650-858-1221 for more information

Getting your File to Us

Email or Upload

We can accept 50GB files via email, if your file is bigger than that…

We will provide you a “Google Drive” folder to upload your artwork when your sign starts production.

If you email or Google Drive your files to us, please include a pdf of what you want printed, again so that we can cross check the pdf against the electronic file.

Our digital output devices and printers are CMYK. For the best possible results please provide CMYK files if possible. However, we also accept RGB files, which we’ll convert to CMYK at this end. A color shift may happen between RGB and CMYK, if you wish a true representation of your logo, make sure it comes to us in CMYK.