Have you ever asked yourself “how do I create an outline around my graphic?”
Well, it’s a very simple process that can be done by using an Illustrator effect called Offset Path. Have you heard of “Offset Path”? It basically expands your vector shapes automatically by whatever dimension you tell it to. Check out how easy it is with either vector or raster-based files in this quick tutorial.
https://youtu.be/lQAxdAmWvP4
So by creating a duplicate of your vector shape and using Pathfinder to “unite” the entire shape. You can then apply the offset path to outline your graphic.
The main reason for doing this is when printing very complex and detailed shapes the outline will hold everything together and make it one sticker. Easier to apply and handle. Especially when using our restickable and removable StickleMe decals. That can be peeled off and reapplied multiple times. We hope we were able to help you figure out how to make custom shaped outline stickers!
Vector Graphics
A vector graphic is made up of scalable lines and shapes. Because these graphics made up of nodes, shapes & paths rather than pixels, vector graphics can be scaled to any size without losing quality. Vector graphics are also normally are very small in file size. Vector file types: ai, pdf, eps, svg
Raster Graphics
Raster file types are pixel based graphics. Pixels graphics are little squares that make up the image. Any type of photograph or raster graphic is made up of pixels and the resolution of images are measured in ppi (pixels per inch) or dpi (printed dots per inch). The higher the ppi or dpi and larger dimensions for your image or design the better it will print. Raster file types: jpg, png, gif, tiff, raw, psd
**Due to variations in acceptable standards with raster-based prints. We cannot guarantee the print resolution will meet your qualifications unless you supply us with a high-resolution raster graphics. In some cases, our graphic designers can vectorize your logo or design if you need a file in a more scalable format.
What Do The File Names Stand For??
.jpg or .jpeg (Joint Photographic Expert Group)
.png (Portable Network Graphics)
.ai (Adobe Illustrator)
.psd or .psb(Photoshop Document)
.pdf(Portable Document Format)
.eps(Encapsulated PostScript)
.tif or .tiff(Tagged Image File Format)
.indd(Adobe InDesign Document)
High-Resolution Files (DPI Guidelines)
For best print results it’s recommended to use higher resolution raster graphics. A minimum of 300 dpi (dots per inch) should be used as a general guideline for your raster-based files. Sometimes referred to as PPI (pixels per inch). It is recommended to always check your file image resolution before submitting by zooming into 100% and examining the image. This allows you to see pixel resolution at the same size as it will be printed. You can check your documents dpi level in Photoshop by clicking on “Image > Image Size” in the menu bar. DPI or PPI is referred to as resolution.
**Sticker Genius will accept all levels of dpi just be aware that if you submit a file with low-resolution it will most likely have some pixelation and/or blur. We will do our best to analyze your file the best we can to let you know how well it will print.
In conclusion, we prefer VECTOR files for a majority of our projects. It will also produce the best print results and the fastest turnaround time for your project. Although, we’re very flexible at Sticker Genius, and will accept almost any file type. Some custom products require different file types. If you’re unsure if your file meets our requirements, you can always contact our team of Stickologist and they can assist in letting you know if your file will print.
Need More Assistance With Your File?
Call us at 855-784-2553
