Have you ever tried to resize an image only to get a botched version with messy lines and jagged lines? It’s because you weren’t using vector designs.
Not only are vectors scalable, but they’re also crisp and clean compared to pixel-based images. No wonder it’s a top choice among pro designers who must ensure that every line and shape looks consistent – from packaging to billboards.
In this article, we’ll unpack everything there is to know about vector design, including tools and software used to make it. We’ll also offer tips for creating high-quality vector designs and how to get your vectors crafted by the world’s top 2% designers. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
- What is Vector Design?
- Tools and Software Used for Vector Designing
- Examples of Vector Design in Action
- Tips for Creating High-Quality Vector Designs
- Outsourcing vs. DIY: Choosing a Graphic Design Service
What is Vector Design?
Simply put, vector design is the art of creating images using mathematical paths rather than pixels.
That said, every line, shape, and color is defined by coordinates, thereby allowing the graphic to scale infinitely without losing quality. Whether you shrink it to fit a business card or blow it up for a billboard, a vector graphic remains crisp, clean, and sharp.
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Vector design file formats are SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics), AI, and EPS. Since a vector drawing is created with paths, they’re resolution-independent. As a result, vectors are the gold standard for marketing assets like icons, logo designs, illustrations, and more.
On the other side of the coin, raster graphics are images that rely on a fixed number of pixels. They are typically saved as JPG, PNG, and GIF files. Here’s an image that illustrate how the two differ:
Image 1. Vector vs. Raster
To sum up, here’s a quick comparison of vector graphics and raster graphics:
| Vector Graphics (SVG, AI, EPS) | Raster Graphics(JPG, PNG, GIF) | |
| Scalability | Infinitely scalable without losing quality | Becomes pixelated when enlarged |
| File Size | Typically, smaller and more lightweight | Larger, especially at high resolution |
| Editing | Fully editable, with flexible colors and shapes | Limited editing, with fixed pixel data |
| Best Use | Logos, illustrations, branding, UI/UX elements | Photographs, textures, web images |
Tools and Software Used for Vector Designing
Here are some of the best programs used for working with vector graphics:
1. Adobe Illustrator (Industry Standard for Vector Design)
- Best for: Professional designers, branding, and advanced vector editing
Adobe Illustrator is the go-to software for creating high-quality vector graphics. It supports AI (Adobe Illustrator), EPS, and SVG file formats, making it ideal for logos, illustrations, and UI elements.
2. CorelDRAW (Popular Among Print Designers)
- Best for: Print media, logos, and branding.
CorelDRAW, meanwhile, is widely used for vector designs in ads, branding, and print design. Added to that, it supports multiple vector file formats and is known for its user-friendly interface.
3. Inkscape (Free Alternative to Adobe Illustrator)
- Best for: Beginners and those looking for free vector design software.
Unlike the first two options, which are both paid, Inkscape is an open-source program that supports SVG, AI, and EPS formats. Because it’s open-source, it is an excellent option for businesses that need high-quality vector graphics without the cost of premium software.
4. Sketch (For UI/UX Vector Design)
- Best for: Web and app design.
Last but not least in our list, Sketch is a vector-based design tool primarily used for creating UI (user interface) and UX (user experience) designs. Unlike other options focusing on general vector illustrations, Sketch is tailored for digital design. That said, it’s become a choice software for web designers and app developers.
Examples of Vector Design in Action
Here are some examples of cool vector designs crafted by our awesome designers here in Penji and how they enhance branding and user experience.
1. Logo Design: The Foundation of a Brand
A well-designed vector logo ensures a brand looks professional across all platforms—whether it’s on a business card or a massive billboard. Since logos need to be scalable graphics, they are always created as vector art, ensuring sharp edges and clean lines at any size.
For example, the Copper Rock Marketing logo shows how vector designs ensure sharp, scalable graphics for branding. For one, the bold monogram-style “CR” icon is clean and geometric, making it easy to recognize at any size. Paired with the text style, the design exudes strength.
2. Marketing Materials: Flyers, Posters, and Ads
Print and digital ads rely on scalable graphics to maintain clarity across formats. Whether designing flyers, brochures, billboards, or social media ads, using vector art ensures vibrant and sharp visuals.
For instance, the event announcement flyer above is a great example of vector design in marketing. The bold, high-contrast design and strategic use of vector shapes exude visual appeal and a professional look.
3. Web and App UI Design: Icons and Illustrations
Modern websites and apps use cool vector designs for UI elements like buttons, icons, and animations. Since vector graphics are lightweight, they help websites load faster, improving user experience.
For example, the website design above shows how cool vector designs enhance UI/UX design. Whether you’re using free vector designs or custom-made vectors, the key is to pair it well with the correct elements. In this case, the 3D-like spheres complemented the geometric accents, and the vector laptop illustration gave a futuristic look.
4. E-Commerce and Packaging: Product Labels and Branding
E-commerce businesses and retail brands rely on vector art for product packaging and online storefronts. High-quality, scalable graphics ensure products look appealing on websites and physical packaging.
Take the packaging design above, for instance. It shows how scalable graphics make the design both aesthetically pleasing and functional across different sizes and materials. In addition, the design remains crisp and clear whether displayed in an online storefront or printed on a physical package.
Tips for Creating High-Quality Vector Designs
Here are a few tips for crafting high-quality vector designs:
- Start with a Solid Concept. Before diving into the software, sketch your ideas and refine your concept to ensure clarity and focus.
- Keep It Simple: Avoid unnecessary complexity; clean, simple shapes are easier to scale and adapt to various sizes and applications.
- Utilize Layers: Organize elements in separate layers to make your design easier to edit and manage.
Why Penji is the Best Choice for Outsourcing Vector Designs
Though making vector graphics alone can be affordable when doing small projects, there are certain drawbacks. For one, you must invest a lot of time and energy to learn how to do it. Plus, you might risk having inconsistent or unprofessional branding.
At Penji, we take the hassle out of design by offering unlimited graphic design services tailored to businesses and marketers.
With a team of expert designers, we create scalable graphics, stunning vector art, and high-quality branding materials—all for a flat monthly rate. Watch a short demo today and get your first professional vector design in as soon as 24 hours!
Get all the vector designs you need at a flat monthly rate
Professional graphic design by the world's top 2% designers
