The Classic Shirts
Design 101

Vector vs Raster: What Your Printer Actually Needs

Jul 6, 2026 · The Classic Shirts Team

If your file looks pixelated on press, it is almost always because you sent a raster where a vector was needed. Here is the clean explanation — with examples.

Vector vs Raster\n\nRaster files (JPG, PNG) are made of pixels. Vectors (AI, EPS, SVG) are made of math. Vectors scale infinitely without losing quality.\n\n## When to use vector\n- Logos\n- Any print larger than a business card\n- Screen printing and embroidery\n- Cut vinyl\n\n## When raster is fine\n- Photographs\n- Web-only graphics under 2000px\n\nIf you are ever unsure, send it to us — we vectorize anything.