By Ellie Johnson, Custom Graphics
File Formats To Provide Agencies To Ensure High-quality Printing
VECTOR (The Ideal Choice)
A vector file is an image file that’s made up of lines, shapes, and curves based on math formulas, instead of pixels.
Vector files won’t lose quality when scaled, which makes them ideal for large-format printing like wraps and signs. They retain clean lines, editable layers, and accurate colors.
Formats — Adobe Illustrator (AI), EPS, PDF, SVG
High-Res Raster (Works Great for Photos or Complex Art)
A raster file is an image made up of tiny squares called pixels. Each pixel holds a color, and together they form the full picture.
These are acceptable only if created at the correct size and resolution (usually 150–300 DPI at final size). Raster files can pixelate when enlarged.
Formats — Adobe Photoshop (PSD), TIFF, PNG, JPG
High-Res Flattened Files (Good but Less Editing Capabilities)
Formats: PDF, High-Res JPG
Low-res Raster Files (Not Recommended)
Formats — PG or PNG with a lower DPI than 300
Web Files (Worst Option, Not Recommended)
Formats — GIF, JPG, or PNG at a lower DPI than 300
What To Know About Fonts
When selecting fonts for a vehicle wrap or sign, it’s important to think big picture—consider how the type will appear from a distance or at a quick glance.
What to Avoid, and Why
Script Fonts Curvy and decorative strokes make the text hard to read quickly, especially at smaller sizes.
Thin or Light-Weight Fonts Small strokes don’t hold up well when viewed at a distance or in poor lighting.
Grunge or Distressed Fonts Texture or “worn” effects can lose legibility when scaled or viewed quickly.
What to Consider Instead
For vehicle wraps and sinage, the bolder and more readable the font, the better. Bold Sans-Serif Fonts are the best font types to use for these. Some exaples are Impact, Montserrat, Gotham, and Bebas Neue.
What To Know About Colors
When selecting a color scheme for your vehicle wrap and signs, it’s important to consider not only your brand colors but also to prioritize visibility and contrast.
