Filled Logo: Should the Engraving File Be Vector or Raster?
Use vector artwork when the logo is built from clean edges and solid fills; use raster artwork when the source contains pixels, texture or continuous tone. Import both only as working copies, set the same final physical size, and compare a small proof.
Start with the artwork's information
A June 2026 beginner asks whether a vector is machine-ready and receives advice to preview SVG or DXF output and decide how filled artwork should be processed. See the university vector question.
Compare the two files at the physical size the buyer will receive. At that scale, a vector can expose distorted traced letters while a raster can reveal pixel stair-stepping that was invisible on a large monitor.
Vector–raster proof record
| Observed state | Record beside it | Next action |
|---|---|---|
| Solid icon | Vector fill | Clean scalable boundary |
| Photo texture | Raster | Tonal data preserved |
| Small text | Vector when source is sound | Readable counters |
| Low-resolution logo | Rebuild or obtain better source | Do not sharpen artifacts |
Store both file versions with the same final-size measurement. The baseline record pairs solid icon with vector fill. A second observation for photo texture must remain separate so the 'Tonal data preserved' decision is traceable.
Compare both files at final size
1. Inspect the original at final physical size, not only while zoomed in.
2. Identify whether every edge can be represented as geometry.
3. Convert fonts only in a controlled copy and preserve the editable source.
4. Preview fills and outlines in currently supported software.
5. Mark vector and raster candidates side by side on one replaceable blank.
The file comparison still needs extraction and attendance; stop if motion or the visible mark differs from the preview.
What P2 changes—and what it cannot
P2 is suited to compact gift and tag workflows where the current product page confirms the setup. File choice does not expand wavelength or material compatibility. The live TYVOK P2 listing must be reopened before relying on modules or accessories. Record the proof blank's coating and backing before comparing files.
File-choice questions
Is SVG always better than PNG?
No. A poor traced SVG can contain thousands of bad nodes, while a clean high-resolution raster can suit tonal artwork.
Why did the outline engrave but the center stay blank?
The imported object may have a stroke without a processing fill, or the fill may be assigned to a different operation.
Should I trace a customer logo automatically?
Inspect and proof any trace; automatic conversion can distort lettering and trademarks.
Grayscale Engraving: Prove Tonal Steps on One Sample handles grayscale behavior rather than logo geometry. Once files are settled, Small Monthly Gift Orders: How Many Blanks Should You Stock? calculates how many approved blanks to keep.
Choose the file form from the side-by-side physical edge result.