When ordering custom heat transfers, the file type you submit to your vendor can significantly impact the quality of the final product. Understanding the difference between vector and non-vector graphics as well as the nuanced differences between file types is crucial for making the right decision.

Vector vs. Non-Vector Graphics

Vector
Vector graphics are composed of mathematical equations that define points, lines, and curves. This means they can be scaled to any size without losing quality. They are ideal for logos, text, and simple shapes.

Non-Vector
Non-vector graphics (also known as raster graphics or bitmaps) are made up of pixels. When scaled, they can become blurry or pixelated. They are better suited for photographs and complex images with lots of detail.

When to Use Vector

Scalability
Vector graphics can be resized without losing clarity, making them perfect for various applications.

Editability
Elements within vector files can be easily modified, allowing for flexibility in design changes.

File Size
Vector files are typically smaller than raster files, making them easier to transfer and store.

Products
Screen Print Transfers, Digital Transfers

When to Use Non-Vector

Photographic Quality
For highly detailed images or photographs, raster graphics provide a better level of detail.

Specific Applications
Certain software or printing processes may require raster files.

Products
Digital Transfers

Design Programs for Screen Print Transfers

CDR (CorelDRAW)
CorelDRAW is a vector graphics editor software that’s popular amongst apparel decorators because of its ease of use and beginner friendliness. This program is used for creating and editing illustrations, logos, and layouts.

AI (Adobe Illustrator)
Adobe Illustrator is also a vector graphics editor software used for creating and editing illustrations, logos, and layouts. While more costly than CorelDRAW and less beginner friendly, Adobe Illustrator is a more intuitive and robust program.

File Types for Screen Print Transfers

Both CorelDRAW and Adobe Illustrator can export a myriad of vector file format options, including native CDR and AI files. On the other hand, using a raster image for screen print transfers can result in a blurry or pixelated final product, particularly if the graphic is under 300 dpi, not color separated, or not sized to the dimensions needed for print. Additionally, these file types can lead to color discrepancies. These are the other file types we do and don’t recommend using when ordering screen print heat transfers. 

Recommended

CDR (CorelDRAW)
Ideal for simple vector images, using a file from a native program will limit incompatibility issues and ensure consistency from user to user.

AI (Adobe Illustrator)
A great choice for more complex vector illustrations, using a file from a native program will limit incompatibility issues and ensure consistency from user to user.

EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)
A versatile vector format that can be used in various design software.

PDF (Portable Document Format)
A good choice for both vector and raster graphics, ensuring compatibility across different platforms.

Not Recommended

JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)
While widely used for images, JPEG compression can degrade image quality, especially when scaled.

PNG (Portable Network Graphics)
Although suitable for some applications, PNG files can become large and may not be ideal for screen printing.

BMP (Bitmap)
A large file format that is not well-suited for screen printing due to its lack of compression.

SVG (Scalabale Vector Graphics)
Due to compatibility and corruption issues, SVG files are not recommended.

Design Programs for Digital Transfers

PSD (Adobe Photoshop)
Part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, Photoshop is one of the most widely used raster image editors, known for its powerful tools and features. Photoshop offers a vast array of tools and features for various image editing tasks, including retouching, compositing, color correction, and digital painting.

CPT (Corel PHOTO-PAINT)
Corel Photo Paint is a raster image editor software that is part of the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite and designed for photo editing, painting, and image manipulation. Like CorelDRAW, this program is well known for it’s ease of use and affordability.

File Types for Digital Transfers

Just like their counterparts, AI and CDR, Photoshop and Corel PHOTO-PAINT can export a wide range of file format options, including native PSD and CPT files.

Recommended

PSD (Adobe Photoshop)
A great choice for more complex raster image editing, using a file from a native program will limit incompatibility issues and ensure consistency from user to user.

CPT (Corel PHOTO-PAINT)
Ideal for simple raster image editing and exporting, using a file from a native program will limit incompatibility issues and ensure consistency from user to user.

PNG (Portable Network Graphics)
PNG files are ideal for digital transfers due to their support for transparent backgrounds and lossless compression.

PDF (Portable Document Format)
PDF files can be used for both vector and raster graphics, making them a versatile option for digital transfers.

Not Recommended

JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)
While JPEG can be used for digital transfers, the compression can affect image quality, especially when there are sharp edges or fine details.

BMP (Bitmap)
While usable, BMP files are generally not recommended for digital transfers due to their large file sizes and lack of compression.

SVG (Scalabale Vector Graphics)
Due to compatibility and corruption issues, SVG files are not recommended.

By understanding the differences between vector and non-vector graphics and choosing the appropriate file types, you can ensure that your custom heat transfers are of the highest quality and meet you and your clients’ specific needs.