Vector Vs Real Image
Alright, imagine you've got two pictures of a cartoon cat. One is a real image, like a photograph, and the other is a vector image, kind of like a drawing made with a computer.
The real image, the photograph, is made up of tiny dots called pixels. If you look really close, you'll see these dots are like little coloured squares. When you zoom in a lot, these squares get bigger and the picture can look blurry or blocky.
Now, the vector image is different. Instead of using dots, it's made with lines and shapes that the computer remembers as maths problems. So, no matter how much you zoom in, it stays super clear and sharp. It doesn't get blurry because the computer just makes the lines and shapes bigger using maths, without losing any detail.
So, think of the real image like a jigsaw puzzle with tiny pieces, and the vector image like a clever drawing that can change its size without ever getting fuzzy or blocky.
Why are vectors better for embroidery?
Alright, let's go back to our cartoon cat picture example, but this time let's think about why at Medicus Caps, we prefer using vector images for designing embroidery, like on hats or uniforms.
So, imagine you have two pictures of the same cartoon cat. One is a real image (like a photograph with lots of colours and shades) and the other is a vector image (like a simple, clear drawing made by a computer).
At Medicus Caps, when we make embroidery, they stitch the design onto fabric. This is a bit like drawing with thread. Now, the real image, with all its shades and colours, is really tricky to copy with stitches. It's like trying to paint a super detailed picture with a very big brush - it's hard to get all the fine details.
But the vector image, with its simple lines and limited colours, is much easier to work with. It's like using a sharp pencil to draw. It's clearer and simpler, so when they turn it into embroidery, it looks clean and neat. The computer can easily turn those simple lines and shapes into a pattern for the embroidery machine to follow.
We use vector images because they're like a neat, easy-to-follow map for the embroidery machines. This way, they can make really cool and clear designs on the caps, without losing any detail or getting too complicated.
Not all vectors are equal
Coming back to the point about embroidery we are still limited in how detailed vector images maybe so will get in touch if we think we need to tweak them. Vectors that end up with lots of layers mean more layers of thread and and overall poorer finish in most cases.
Finding Copyright Free Vector Images
We have a commercial license with Freepik.com to use any elements on their website for commercial purposes. Head on over to freepik.com and you can find vectors that might work well with embroidery.
