Vector vs. Bitmap

Usable art: Clean vectorized files that allow for precise scaling, editing, and cutting.
Unusable art: Bitmap images or artwork lacking a defined cut path, which limits our ability to process it accurately.

Artwork provided with a quote or order plays a critical role in both producibility and final product quality. Incorrect or incompatible file types can often lead to delays, errors, or additional processing requirements. To ensure a smooth experience, it is important to understand the distinction between usable and unusable artwork.

Note: Bitmap files such as JPEG, PNG, TIF, or BMP, are accepted only for Colorlast printing and spacing requirements on orders with standard font. For all other order types, we require clean, vectorized artwork. For a comprehensive overview of accepted formats and specifications, please refer to our Artwork Standards and Best Practices article.

While we can sometimes provide an initial quote using bitmap or otherwise unusable artwork, even if the bitmap files are high resolution, producibility cannot be guaranteed until usable art is received.

Vector graphics

Vector artwork is created using vector graphics, which rely on points, lines, curves, and shapes defined by mathematical formulas. Because these elements are resolution independent, vector files can be scaled to any size—larger or smaller—without any loss of clarity or detail. This flexibility makes vector artwork ideal for production, where precise resizing is often required.

Bitmap graphics

Bitmap graphics, also known as raster graphics, are made up of tiny square pixels arranged in a rectangular grid. This pixel‑based structure allows for a wide range of colors, detailed shading, and more nuanced editing of gradients and lighting than vectors typically provide. However, bitmap images have a fixed resolution. When a bitmap file is enlarged, the pixels become more visible, causing edges to appear jagged and overall image quality to degrade.

Digital photographs—including most images found online—are typically bitmap files. In contrast, vector files are better suited for digital illustrations, complex graphics, and logos, where clean lines and precise scalability are essential.

Note: One of the simplest ways to distinguish between vector and bitmap artwork is by zooming in on the image. Vector artwork will remain sharp and clearly defined at any magnification, while a bitmap image will begin to appear grainy or pixelated as the individual pixels become more visible.

Original size	Zoomed view

File Types

Compatible file types you can send are:

Gemini does not support file types from other software such as .CDR (CorelDraw), .fs (Flexi), or .DWG (AutoCAD). Our art processing is primarily done through Adobe software. We recommend exporting or saving your files as a PDF.

If you have questions about your artwork, you can contact your Customer Experience team in your Partner Portal account.

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