Vector Conversion for Production
Automatic tracing is fast, but a traced file is not automatically a production file. We convert raster and PDF artwork into clean vector paths, then inspect the result for closed paths, stray nodes, text issues and output requirements.
What usually goes wrong
These are the production problems this service is built to catch. If your file has a different issue, describe it in the upload form; we will tell you whether it is fixable before quoting.
Auto-trace produced a messy outline
Background noise, hundreds of tiny nodes and open paths make a file unusable for production.
The PDF has fonts or effects that do not survive
A PDF that looks right on screen can fail when the next shop opens or prints it.
The file must be both printed and cut
Print artwork and cut paths need different treatments; the same trace cannot serve both.
What you get
- Clean vector file in SVG, EPS or PDF
- Reduced node count and closed paths where needed
- Separated or clearly named colour layers
- Text handled as outlines or flagged for substitution
- A production check note
The production check
Every file is checked against the items that matter for the stated production use. The delivery note records what was checked and any assumption we had to make.
Who it is for
- Print shops converting a customer JPG into a print file
- Sign shops preparing artwork for cutting
- Designers who need a clean vector from a raster source
- Brands with old PDF artwork and no source files
How the job runs
- Upload the artwork and tell us the use. Send the customer-supplied logo, PDF or design file, plus where it will be printed, cut, engraved or embroidered.
- We review it like a prepress desk. A person checks resolution, paths, fonts, colour, size and output requirements before we quote. No black-box auto-conversion.
- Approve the quote and turnaround. You get a fixed price for the file, not a surprise invoice. Standard turnaround is 24–48 hours after approval.
- Receive checked files and a delivery note. You get the production files, a before/after note and the 8-point check result. If the checked file fails, we rework it or refund it.
Pricing factors
We quote after seeing the file and the intended use. The price depends on the work, not on a flat per-format rate.
- Image complexity and detail:
- Number of colours:
- Whether cut paths are required:
- Source resolution and cleanliness:
- Turnaround:
Frequently asked
Why can't I just use a free online converter?+
You can, for a quick visual result. Production is different: cutters need closed paths, printers need clean edges and the file has to survive a second shop opening it. A free trace often leaves noise, open paths and too many nodes.
What formats can you convert from?+
Common raster sources (JPG, PNG, TIFF) and PDFs. Send the best source you have; if the only file is a screenshot, we will tell you whether it is workable.
Can you produce a DXF for laser cutting?+
We can prepare clean vector paths for cut workflows and discuss the target machine before quoting. We do not claim the file will work on every laser or CNC system without checking the target software.
Background reading: bleed in printing and crop marks.
Related services
Need vector conversion for a job this week?
Upload the customer file with the production details. We will confirm what is possible and quote it before any work starts.