How To Save As Vector File

Saving your work as a vector file is crucial for designers, illustrators, and anyone dealing with graphics that need to be scaled without losing quality. Vector graphics, unlike raster images (like JPEGs and PNGs), are based on mathematical equations, allowing them to be infinitely scalable. This article will guide you through the process of saving your work as a vector file, explaining the various formats, software involved, and best practices to ensure your graphics remain crisp and clear at any size.

Understanding Vector Graphics

Vector graphics are composed of paths, which are defined by start and end points, angles, and other mathematical parameters. This makes them ideal for logos, icons, illustrations, and typography, where sharp lines and scalability are essential. Unlike raster images, which are made up of pixels, vector graphics don't become blurry or pixelated when you zoom in or resize them.

Key Benefits of Vector Graphics:
- Scalability: Can be scaled infinitely without loss of quality.
- Small File Size: Generally smaller in file size compared to raster images, especially for simple graphics.
- Editability: Paths and shapes can be easily modified.
- Sharp Lines: Ideal for graphics that require precise lines and shapes.

Popular Vector File Formats

Several vector file formats are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these formats is essential for choosing the right one for your specific needs.

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics):
- A widely used, open-standard format for vector graphics.
- Based on XML, making it readable and editable with a text editor.
- Well-supported by web browsers, making it ideal for web graphics.
- Supports interactivity and animation.
AI (Adobe Illustrator Artwork):
- The native file format for Adobe Illustrator.
- Supports complex vector graphics and advanced features specific to Illustrator.
- May not be fully compatible with other software without proper exporting.
EPS (Encapsulated PostScript):
- An older vector format often used for print.
- Supports both vector and raster data.
- Can be opened in various vector editing programs, but compatibility issues can occur.
PDF (Portable Document Format):
- While primarily a document format, PDFs can also contain vector graphics.
- Widely used for sharing and printing documents, including those with vector illustrations.
- Supports embedding fonts and images.
CDR (CorelDRAW):
- The native file format for CorelDRAW.
- Similar to AI, it supports complex vector graphics and features specific to CorelDRAW.
- Compatibility can be limited outside of CorelDRAW.

Software for Creating and Saving Vector Files

Several software applications allow you to create and save vector files. Here are some of the most popular options:

Adobe Illustrator:
- Industry-standard vector graphics editor.
- Offers a comprehensive set of tools for creating and editing vector graphics.
- Supports saving in AI, SVG, EPS, and PDF formats.
CorelDRAW:
- Another popular vector graphics editor with a wide range of features.
- Supports saving in CDR, SVG, EPS, and AI formats (through export).
Inkscape:
- A free and open-source vector graphics editor.
- Offers a solid set of tools for creating and editing vector graphics.
- Primarily uses the SVG format but can also export to other formats.
Affinity Designer:
- A professional vector graphics editor that offers a more affordable alternative to Adobe Illustrator.
- Supports saving in SVG, EPS, PDF, and its native Affinity Designer format.
Sketch:
- A vector-based design tool primarily used for UI and web design.
- Offers a clean and intuitive interface.
- Supports saving in SVG, EPS, and PDF formats.

Step-by-Step Guide to Saving as a Vector File

The exact steps for saving as a vector file vary depending on the software you are using, but the general process remains the same. Here's a detailed guide for several popular programs:

Saving as a Vector File in Adobe Illustrator

Open Your Design: Open your design in Adobe Illustrator.
Review Your Artwork: Before saving, ensure all elements are properly aligned and grouped as needed. Make sure that any raster images are embedded or linked correctly if you intend to include them in the final vector file.
Go to File > Save As: Navigate to the "File" menu and select "Save As."
Choose a Vector Format: In the "Save As" dialog box, choose the desired vector format from the "Format" dropdown menu. You have several options, including:
- Adobe Illustrator (AI): This is the native format for Illustrator and is best for preserving all the features of your artwork, including layers, gradients, and effects.
- SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics): This format is ideal for web use and allows your graphics to be scaled without loss of quality in web browsers.
- EPS (Encapsulated PostScript): This format is commonly used for print and is compatible with a wide range of applications.
- PDF (Portable Document Format): This format is versatile and can be used for both print and digital distribution.
Configure Save Options: Depending on the format you choose, you'll have different options to configure. Here's a breakdown of the options for each format:
- AI Options:
  - Version: Choose the Illustrator version to ensure compatibility with older versions of the software.
  - Options:
    - Create PDF Compatible File: Embeds a PDF version of your artwork within the AI file, making it viewable in PDF readers.
    - Include Linked Files: Includes linked files in the AI file. Deselecting this option will require the linked files to be available separately.
    - Embed Fonts: Embeds the fonts used in your artwork, ensuring they are displayed correctly on other computers.
    - Create Overprint: Preserves overprint settings.
    - Use Compression: Compresses the file to reduce its size.
- SVG Options:
  - SVG Profile: Choose the SVG profile that best suits your needs. SVG 1.1 is the most widely supported.
  - Type: Choose how you want the SVG code to be structured.
    - SVG: Standard SVG code.
    - Compressed SVG: Compressed SVG code for smaller file sizes.
  - Options:
    - Embed Fonts: Embeds the fonts used in your artwork, ensuring they are displayed correctly in web browsers.
    - Use Artboard: Saves only the content within the artboard boundaries.
    - Responsive: Makes the SVG scale to fit its container.
- EPS Options:
  - Version: Choose the PostScript version to ensure compatibility with older printers and software.
  - Preview: Choose a preview format (TIFF or None).
  - Encoding: Choose an encoding method (Binary or ASCII). Binary is generally preferred for smaller file sizes.
  - Options:
    - Include Linked Files: Includes linked files in the EPS file.
    - Embed Fonts: Embeds the fonts used in your artwork.
    - Overprints: Preserves overprint settings.
- PDF Options:
  - Adobe PDF Preset: Choose a preset based on the intended use of the PDF (e.g., "High Quality Print," "Smallest File Size").
  - Compatibility: Choose the PDF version to ensure compatibility with older versions of Acrobat.
  - Options:
    - Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities: Allows the PDF to be opened and edited in Illustrator.
    - Embed Page Thumbnails: Includes thumbnails of each page.
    - Optimize for Fast Web View: Optimizes the PDF for viewing online.
    - Create Acrobat Layers: Preserves layers in the PDF file.
Name Your File: Give your file a descriptive name. Use underscores instead of spaces for web-friendly file names.
Save: Click the "Save" button to save your file.

Saving as a Vector File in CorelDRAW

Open Your Design: Open your design in CorelDRAW.
Review Your Artwork: Ensure all elements are correctly aligned and grouped as necessary. Check for any raster images and ensure they are appropriately linked or embedded.
Go to File > Save As: Navigate to the "File" menu and select "Save As."
Choose a Vector Format: In the "Save As" dialog box, choose the desired vector format from the "Save as type" dropdown menu. You can choose from the following formats:
- CDR (CorelDRAW): This is the native format for CorelDRAW and is best for preserving all features of your artwork.
- SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics): Suitable for web use, this format allows your graphics to scale without quality loss in web browsers.
- EPS (Encapsulated PostScript): Commonly used for print and compatible with a wide range of applications.
- AI (Adobe Illustrator): CorelDRAW can export to AI format, though some features may not translate perfectly.
- PDF (Portable Document Format): Versatile for both print and digital distribution.
Configure Save Options: Depending on the selected format, configure the save options:
- CDR Options:
  - Version: Select the CorelDRAW version for compatibility.
  - Options:
    - Maintain Layers: Preserve the layers in the document.
    - Embed ICC Profile: Embed the color profile.
    - Compress File: Reduce file size.
- SVG Options:
  - Export Range: Choose to export the entire page, selected objects, or the current layer.
  - Options:
    - Embed Fonts: Embed fonts to ensure correct display in browsers.
    - Optimize for Web: Optimize the SVG for web use.
    - CSS Properties: Choose how CSS properties are handled (e.g., inline styles, internal style sheet).
- EPS Options:
  - Version: Choose the PostScript level for compatibility.
  - Preview: Select a preview image format (TIFF or None).
  - Encoding: Choose an encoding method (ASCII or Binary).
  - Options:
    - Include Fonts: Embed fonts in the EPS file.
    - Include Images: Embed or link images.
- AI Options:
  - Version: Select the Adobe Illustrator version for compatibility.
  - Options:
    - Convert Text to Curves: Converts text to vector shapes to avoid font issues.
    - Simulate Overprints: Simulates overprint effects.
- PDF Options:
  - PDF Preset: Select a preset for the intended use (e.g., PDF/X-1a for print).
  - Compatibility: Choose the PDF version for compatibility.
  - Options:
    - Embed Fonts: Embed fonts in the PDF.
    - Optimize for Web: Optimize for fast web viewing.
    - Layers:* Preserve layers in the PDF.
Name Your File: Enter a descriptive file name. Use underscores instead of spaces for web-friendly names.
Save: Click "Save" to save your file.

Saving as a Vector File in Inkscape

Open Your Design: Open your design in Inkscape.
Review Your Artwork: Verify that all elements are correctly aligned and grouped. Ensure any raster images are embedded if needed.
Go to File > Save As: Navigate to the "File" menu and select "Save As."
Choose a Vector Format: In the "Save As" dialog box, select the desired vector format from the "Save as type" dropdown menu. The primary format for Inkscape is:
- SVG (Inkscape SVG): This is the native SVG format for Inkscape.
- Plain SVG: A cleaner SVG format that may be more compatible with other software.
- PDF (Portable Document Format): Versatile for both print and digital distribution.
- EPS (Encapsulated PostScript): Commonly used for print.
Configure Save Options: Depending on the format, configure the save options:
- SVG Options:
  - Inkscape SVG:
    - Preserves Inkscape-specific features and metadata.
  - Plain SVG:
    - Creates a cleaner SVG file with fewer Inkscape-specific attributes.
  - Options:
    - Optimize SVG: Reduces file size by removing unnecessary data.
- PDF Options:
  - Options:
    - PDF Version: Choose the PDF version for compatibility.
    - Rasterize Filter Effects: Convert filter effects to raster images.
    - Text Output: Choose how text is handled (as text or as paths).
- EPS Options:
  - Options:
    - Text as Paths: Convert text to vector paths to avoid font issues.
    - Rasterize Filter Effects: Convert filter effects to raster images.
Name Your File: Enter a descriptive file name, using underscores instead of spaces for web-friendly names.
Save: Click "Save" to save your file.

Saving as a Vector File in Affinity Designer

Open Your Design: Open your design in Affinity Designer.
Review Your Artwork: Ensure all elements are properly aligned and grouped as needed. Check for any raster images and ensure they are appropriately linked or embedded.
Go to File > Export: Navigate to the "File" menu and select "Export."
Choose a Vector Format: In the "Export" dialog box, choose the desired vector format from the available options:
- SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics): Ideal for web use, allowing your graphics to scale without quality loss in web browsers.
- EPS (Encapsulated PostScript): Commonly used for print and compatible with a wide range of applications.
- PDF (Portable Document Format): Versatile for both print and digital distribution.
Configure Save Options: Depending on the format, configure the export options:
- SVG Options:
  - Preset: Choose a preset for web or print.
  - Options:
    - Rasterize Unsupported Properties: Converts unsupported features to raster images.
    - Minify: Reduces file size by removing unnecessary data.
    - Export Text as Curves: Converts text to vector shapes.
- EPS Options:
  - Options:
    - Rasterize Unsupported Properties: Converts unsupported features to raster images.
    - Embed Fonts: Embed fonts in the EPS file.
    - Output as Bitmap: Exports the design as a bitmap image.
- PDF Options:
  - Preset: Choose a preset for print, web, or PDF/X standards.
  - Options:
    - Rasterize Unsupported Properties: Converts unsupported features to raster images.
    - Embed Fonts: Embed fonts in the PDF.
    - Include Bleed: Includes bleed area for printing.
Name Your File: Enter a descriptive file name, using underscores instead of spaces for web-friendly names.
Export: Click "Export" to save your file.

Best Practices for Saving Vector Files

To ensure your vector files are optimized for their intended use, follow these best practices:

Choose the Right Format: Select the format that best suits your needs. SVG is ideal for web graphics, while AI is best for preserving Illustrator features. EPS is good for print, and PDF is versatile for both.
Simplify Your Design: Complex designs with many paths and shapes can result in large file sizes. Simplify your design where possible without sacrificing quality.
Convert Text to Outlines/Curves: To avoid font issues, convert text to outlines or curves before saving. This turns the text into vector shapes, ensuring it displays correctly on any computer. Note that this makes the text uneditable as text.
Embed Fonts: If you need to keep the text editable, embed the fonts in the file. This ensures that the fonts are available even if the recipient doesn't have them installed.
Optimize for Web: When saving SVG files for web use, optimize the file for smaller file sizes. This can involve removing unnecessary metadata, compressing the file, and simplifying the design.
Use Artboards: Utilize artboards to define the boundaries of your artwork. This makes it easier to export specific portions of your design.
Review Your File: Before distributing your vector file, open it in a different program or on a different computer to ensure it displays correctly.
Name Your Files Clearly: Use descriptive file names that indicate the content and purpose of the file.
Keep a Master File: Always keep a master file in the native format of the software you are using (e.g., AI for Illustrator, CDR for CorelDRAW). This allows you to make future edits and changes to your design.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Font Issues: If text doesn't display correctly, try embedding the fonts or converting the text to outlines/curves.
Compatibility Issues: If you're having trouble opening a vector file in a specific program, try saving it in a different format or using an older version of the format.
Large File Sizes: If your vector file is too large, try simplifying the design, compressing the file, or removing unnecessary metadata.
Rasterization: Ensure that you're not accidentally rasterizing parts of your design when saving. This can happen if you use certain effects or filters that are not supported in vector formats.
Missing Linked Files: If your vector file includes linked files, make sure to include those files when sharing the file. Alternatively, embed the linked files in the vector file.

Conclusion

Saving your work as a vector file is a fundamental skill for anyone working with graphics. By understanding the different vector formats, choosing the right software, and following best practices, you can ensure that your designs remain scalable, editable, and visually appealing. Whether you're creating logos, illustrations, or web graphics, mastering the art of saving vector files will empower you to create high-quality designs that stand the test of time and scale.