File Setup Guide

Sending us files for Laser cutting and Router Cutting

Vector file Vs .JPG file.

A vector file is a graphic file that can be re-sized. The image does not pixelate or distort when enlarged. Shapes and lines make up vector graphic. Vector based file is the original file designed from a graphic design program.

.JPG, .GIF, .PNG are low quality, web based files. They are low quality for faster load in your web browser. The right click and save image action will always be a low resolution file.
Our application will not accept a low res image. WE cannot increase the image in size without it pixelating on the edges.

Vector files are files designed by a graphic designer and they have the design tools to re-format a low resolution file to an original, high resolution image.

Determining My File Type

The simple way to check:
1. Look at the file ending. Does it end in a jpg, .gif, .psd, .bmp?
2. Can the file be zoomed in without loss of image quality?
3. When zoomed in 200%. Look closely at the edges, are they pixelating?

If you answered yes to the above, it is not vector based file. If the image remains smooth and ends in AI, EPS, DXF or PDF than it is a vector file.

Vector files are originals and designed professionally in a graphic design program, rather than just right click, copy and pasted.

Vector File formats (we accept) AI, EPS, DXF, or PDF.

Non Vector File formats (we cannot accept) – jpg, .gif, .psd, .bmp, .png

If the image or logo is a lower quality, the outcome would be poor quality. It is a priority to provide us with a professionally designed outline of your logo or image.

Creating Outlines – Overview for Graphic Designers

Outlining an Image
Open Adobe Illustrator, place the low resolution file on the ART Board, use the pen tools to outline the image. Shaping, curving with pen tools. Once this has been finalised, remove the low resolution image and you will be left with an outline. Save as .eps and send to us as an email attachment

Outlining Fonts
1. Type in the words and select font.
2. CTRL > Shift > O (Voila the font is in outlines). You can see the blue outline around the letters. Save as .eps .or .ai and send us an attachment on email.