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How do I convert a PNG to a vector in Illustrator?

Last updated on November 15, 2022 @ 1:13 pm

PNG files are great for storing graphics, but they can be difficult to edit in Illustrator. Vector files are the perfect solution because they can be edited in any vector software, and they are resolution independent.

To convert a PNG to a vector in Illustrator, follow these steps:

1. Open Illustrator and create a new document.

create new document

 

 

You can also import a PNG file directly to Adobe Illustrator. The process is the same as opening any other image file:

  • Import a PNG file by clicking on its icon in the Files panel or by dragging it onto your document (you can also select multiple files). If you want to convert all of your PNGs at once, select them all before pressing Ctrl + I (Command + I on Windows).

open files in adobe illustrator

2. To convert your PNG file into a vector, follow these steps:

  • Select “Image Trace” then “Make” in the Layers panel to convert the image into a vector. This will save you time later when you need to edit it again or repurpose it for another purpose!

image-trace-make

3. To save a PNG as an SVG format file, choose File > Save As. In the Save As dialog box that appears, enter SVG in the File name textbox and click Save.

You can also use any other vector editing program or website to edit SVG files. For example, Adobe Illustrator supports editing of both .AI and .EPS files (.AI stands for Adobe Illustrator), so you can save your artwork as either type of file when using this tool.

save as svg adobe illustrator

Vector image definition

Scalable vector graphics are mathematical representations of images, rather than bitmaps or pixel-based ones.

Online images are typically raster images. Raster images convey a picture by means of square pixels (bits of color). Coloring in vector graphics is done with resizable polygons of color. With vector images, you get clean lines and vivid hues because they’re built from dynamic color sections rather than static squares.

Due to their formulaic geometry, vector images can be scaled to any resolution. This is because the shape of the color polygons in a vector file is independent of the scale at which it is viewed. However, this is not the case for raster images, as scaling them distorts their color data.

The two image types are clearly distinguishable from one another in terms of their file formats. The most common types of raster images are JPG as well as GIF, while the most common types of vector images are SVG, EPS, and AI.

Advantages of using vectors in designs

We’ll go over what makes vector graphics such a strong option for designers, including examples.

Reduced File Sizes

Collaborating with vector format reduces the space required to store art files because vector formats use less data than raster image formats. Images with a smaller file size can be sent via email or shared using file-sharing programs with much less delay.

Having a smaller file size means that vector graphics load much faster on web pages, which is especially helpful for web designers. Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) is one of the most popular image file types on the web because of its small footprint. When images on a page are compressed, it allows the page to load more quickly, which improves the user experience.

Quick conversion to other file types

In the event that your project or deliverables require a raster image rather than a vector graphic, you can easily transform your vector file into a raster image format. The process of transforming a raster image into a vector one is notoriously complex and time-consuming.

Vectorizing a raster image with software like CorelDRAW’s PowerTRACE tool is possible, but it is resource-intensive and may not produce the desired results if the raster image is particularly complex. Make sure to create your image in vector format first and then export it to raster if necessary if you plan on making any changes to it.

Scalability

We have established that one of the primary advantages of vector graphics is their scalability throughout this series of articles. Vector graphics can be enlarged or shrunk to any size without losing quality, making them ideal for everything from a tiny pen logo to a massive billboard.

The ability to scale an image so that it looks the same crisp and clear on any screen size is essential for digital applications. Because of their adaptability to different display sizes without compromising quality, SVGs have found widespread use on the web.

Moreover, when it comes to printing, the scalability of vector graphics really shines. Since vector files can be easily modified in size and scaled for use on a wide variety of printed goods, they are the format of choice for print shops ranging from print-on-demand services to t-shirt screen printers.

PRO TIP: When converting a PNG to a vector in Illustrator, it is important to note that the quality of the image may decrease. Additionally, you may lose some of the original image data during the conversion process.

Conclusion

Having read this, you should be familiar with Illustrator’s image-to-vector conversion capabilities. Your new work will retain its integrity at any size you choose to make it.

Don’t forget that complex vector images can weigh in much heavier than their raster equivalents. As a result, they could be more time-consuming to load and modify. However, the quality of your vector file will be unaffected by the magnification factor.

10 Related Question Answers Found

Can I convert PNG to vector in Illustrator?

There is no one definitive answer to this question, as the process of converting PNG files to vector graphics in Illustrator will vary depending on the specific software and file format. However, some general tips and advice that may be useful when converting PNG files to vector graphics in Illustrator include: 1. Use the correct file format for the task at hand.

How do I convert a JPEG to Vector in Illustrator?

When you want to create a vector image from a JPEG, you can use the Convert to Vector function in Illustrator. The first thing you need to do is open the JPEG file in Illustrator. Once the file is open, select the Convert to Vector button from the toolbar.

How do I convert Photoshop to vector in Illustrator?

If you want to convert Photoshop to vector in Illustrator, the first step is to open Photoshop and create a new document. Next, choose File > Export > Vector File. In the Export Options dialog box, select Illustrator (*.AI) as the file type and click Export.

How do I convert an image to a vector in Illustrator?

In Illustrator, you can easily convert an image to a vector by using the Image > Convert to Vector command. To do so, first select the image in the document. Next, click the Image > Convert to Vector command in the Illustrator toolbar.

How do I convert a PDF to a vector file in Illustrator?

PDF to Vector Conversion in Illustrator When you need to convert a PDF document into a vector format, Illustrator is a great tool to use. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to convert a PDF to a vector file in Illustrator. First, open up Illustrator and select the PDF document you want to convert.

How do I vectorize text in Illustrator?

In Illustrator, vectorizing text can be a bit of a challenge. There are a few different ways to do it, and the best way to find out is to experiment. One way to vectorize text is to use the “Create Outlines” tool in Illustrator which is found under the Quick Actions section in the Properties window.

How do you vectorize in Illustrator?

Vectorizing in Illustrator is a very easy process. The first step is to create the vector geometry. Next, you need to create a new file, or open an existing file that you want to vectorize.

How do you create a vector in Illustrator?

Illustrator is a vector drawing program that allows users to create detailed vector illustrations and graphics. To create a vector in Illustrator, first create a vector object. You can create a vector object by selecting the Pen tool and clicking and dragging to create a rectangular shape.

Can you vectorize an image in Illustrator?

Vectorizing an image in Illustrator is a quick and easy way to create a graphics file that can be used in a variety of applications. You can vectorize an image by drawing shapes and paths with the Pen tool, and then using the Vector Tools to transform and resize the shapes. You can also use the Liquify tool to create smooth edges and curves, and the Pathfinder tool to adjust the position and size of the vector shapes.

How do you vectorize an image in Illustrator?

Illustrator is a vector art program that allows users to create detailed illustrations and graphics. Vector art is created by using curves and shapes to represent objects in a file, rather than by using pixel values. Vector art can be scaled up or down without losing detail, and it can be edited easily in Adobe Photoshop or other vector-editing programs.
Madison Geldart

Madison Geldart

Cloud infrastructure engineer and tech mess solver.