Vector vs Raster

There are two kinds of computer graphics. Raster, which is composed of pixels, and more commonly known as bitmaps images. An example of this would be clip art in a word processing program. The other type is Vector, which is the use of geometrical primitives such as points, lines, curves, and shapes or polygons. Also referred to as paths.

A bitmap images, or Raster images, uses a grid of individual pixels where each pixel can be a different color or shade.

Vector graphics use a mathematical formula or relationship between points and paths connecting them to describe, or create an image.

For Raster image, to resize the picture larger would cause it to become blurry and with a major loss of clariety. To do the same to a Vector image, you would not lose any of the quality of the original image, as it retains it look at any resolution.

Below is a picture which will provide you with a visual of both. The original picture is a vector image. The images on the right are magnified 7X to display what happens to both images.




You can see that the Vector image can be scaled indefinately without losing any of the quality.


So how does this relate to Screen Printing?

Let's say you have a normal 4-6 inch logo for your company or sports team. You may provide this to us in a raster/bitmap form. Most commonly in of one of these formats: .jpeg, .gig, or .png. If you wanted this image enlarged to fit the back of a shirt, or banner, the best method would be for us to take your raster image and convert it to vector. We will then be able to print that logo in any size that you would like.