Vector Images, Vector Graphics

What are vector graphics or vector images? Why does your artwork have to be converted into a vector image?
All cut vinyl signs are the result of using a vector image to give the vinyl plotter a defined line to cut on. Most sign making software have a program in them to convert raster images into a vector image. Images like a photo are made up of pixels whereas a vector image is made up of points, lines and geometric shapes. When you blow up an image made of pixels you lose some of your clarity, but a vector image does not lose any detail. Its great for what we do in the vinyl sign world. Now printed graphics are a different story. They may be vector images or a raster image. Here is what a vector image may look like as opposed to a photo made with pixels.



I borrowed these images from Wikipedia here is the article on vector images for some more info on the subject;
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vector_graphics