Vector vs Raster Files: A Complete Guide for Likcut Users

When you’re creating digital artwork, logos, or DIY projects, you’ll often come across two major types of image files: vector files and raster files. Understanding the difference between the two will help you choose the right format and get the best results when working with your Likcut cutting machine.

What Is a Raster File?

Raster files are made of pixels — tiny colored squares that combine to form an image. The more pixels the image has, the more detail it shows. Common raster formats include JPG, PNG, GIF, BMP, and PSD.

· Advantages: Great for detailed images like photographs, offering rich colors and shading.

· Drawbacks: When you zoom in or enlarge a raster image, it becomes blurry or pixelated.

For example, if you enlarge a photo from your phone, you’ll quickly notice the image loses sharpness — that’s a clear sign of a raster file.

What Is a Vector File?

Vector files, on the other hand, are built from mathematical formulas, lines, and curves rather than pixels. This means they can be scaled infinitely without losing quality. Common vector formats include SVG, AI, EPS, and PDF (vector-based).

· Advantages: Always sharp, no matter the size — perfect for logos, icons, and illustrations.

· Drawbacks: Less suitable for complex photos with detailed shading.

Vector vs Raster: How to Tell the Difference

· Resolution: Raster images lose quality when enlarged; vector graphics stay sharp at any size.

· Usage:

Raster: photographs, detailed artwork, online images.

Vector: logos, icons, illustrations, designs that need resizing.

· File Size: Raster files tend to be larger due to pixel data; vector files are lightweight.

Using Files in Likcut Design Store

At the Likcut Design Store, you can upload both vector and raster files — but how you use them matters:

· Vector Files (Recommended)

Upload SVG files for instant cutting.

Best for vinyl layering projects where clean edges and precision are crucial.

· Raster Files

Supported formats include JPG and PNG.

To cut them, you’ll need to separate the design into color layers (block segmentation) first.

More suitable for Print Then Cut projects, where you print the design first and then cut the outline with your Likcut machine.

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Pro Tip: Use SVG files for stacked vinyl crafts and multi-layer decals, and keep raster files for printed sticker projects.

Final Thoughts

· Vector = best for cutting: crisp, scalable, perfect for vinyl and layered designs.

· Raster = best for printing: rich colors and detail, but requires extra steps for cutting.

· The Likcut Design Store supports both, but if you want the smoothest workflow, stick to SVG vector files.

Start your creative journey today — upload your files to the [Likcut Design Store] and bring your DIY ideas to life!

File and extension types.

Your software will usually determine your file type, whether it’s raster or vector. There are multiple types and extensions of both raster and vector files, each with its own features. Learn more about some of the common ones: