Raster vs. Vector: What’s the Difference?

Left: a raster “E” Right: a vector “E”

There are two main types of design files you’ll come across in the digital design world: Raster and Vector. While it’s possible to make letterpress printing plates and foil dies from both file types, there are instances when one file type is preferred over the other. First, let’s learn the differences between each file type.

Raster Files

Raster files are made up of square pixels arranged in a grid. Each pixel contains a color and together they make up an image. The more pixels a file has, the higher quality the image will be. File sizes are measure in PPI (pixels per inch). The more pixels in the image file, the higher the resolution it is. The main issue with raster artwork is it cannot be scaled up. If you enlarge a raster file too much, or if you print with a low PPI, you will see the individual square pixels in the print.

Vector Files

Vector artwork contains no pixels. It’s made up of points charted on a grid and through mathematical formulas, lines, geometric shapes and color fills are achieved. Vector graphics can be endlessly scaled without any loss of quality. Resolution is never an issue with vector files.

What File Do We Prefer?

Vector files work best for letterpress. Most invitation and stationery designs can be easily created with vector graphics for the most crisp letterpress print. For illustrations or calligraphy that require raster artwork, please ensure that the highest PPI file is provided. You don’t want to see ragged pixels in your letterpress invitation.