Vectors and SVG

What is a vector image?

Short answer

A vector image is a picture stored as shapes - points, lines, curves and fills - rather than a grid of pixels. Because the shapes are described mathematically, a vector scales to any size, from a favicon to a billboard, without blurring. SVG is the most common vector format on the web; JPEG and PNG are pixel formats.

What a vector image is, how it differs from a pixel image, and when to use one.

Vector or pixel image?

A pixel (raster) image, such as a photo, is a fixed grid of coloured squares. Enlarge it past its size and it turns soft or blocky. A vector image is redrawn from its shapes at whatever size it is shown, so its edges stay sharp.

Vectors suit logos, icons, illustrations and anything printed at many sizes. Photos and detailed textures are better kept as pixel images.

Why SVG is the format to know

SVG is the vector format of the web. It opens in every modern browser and in vector design tools, the files are small, and they look sharp on any screen. Because an SVG is made of shapes, you can change a colour or move a part without redrawing anything.

Making vectors with Cutlin

Ask Cutlin for a vector and it makes one. Describe the graphic and it makes a real, editable SVG; attach a picture and Convert to vector traces it into SVG. A new vector costs 10 credits and a conversion 3.

Make your next post in minutes

On-brand images and social posts, sized for every feed and carrying your real logo - all in Cutlin.