2D Digital Design

"Vector" and "Raster"

What is the difference between "vector" and "raster" and why would you choose one over the other?

Vector formats are good for designs that you want to scale in size -- e.g. logos, icons, and web design. Raster formats are good for designs that are not meant to be scaled or they have a lot of detail and colors -- e.g. photographs, posters, and art.

Common vector formats:

• .svg -- Scalable Vector Graphics
• .eps -- Encapsulated PostScript
• .ai -- Adobe Illustrator

Common raster formats:

• .jpg or .jpeg -- Joint Photographic Experts Group
• .png -- Portable Network Graphics
• .tif or .tiff -- Tagged Image File Format
• .psd -- PhotoShop Document

Vector Software

Free Software

Other Software Options

• Corel Draw
• Adobe Illustrator
  • official tutorials
  • wikiHow tutorials
• Draft Sight

Raster Software

Free Software

Other Software Options

• Adobe Fresco
• Adobe Lightroom
• Adobe Photoshop
  • official tutorials
  • wikiHow tutorials

Ideas for Lesson Plans

Software Introductions

Setting: classroom, 5-10 students

2D design is useful for a variety of projects, so it's important to understand the software that is used for these projects. For example, don't cover vector design at the same time you are showing students how to use the laser system. Instead, introduce your students to vector design software first, then make it a prerequisite for the class on the laser system. Pick a software, follow the tutorials, and then walk your students through it.