3 Things To Know When Working
With Graphic Designers

Designer Lingo 101

2. Vector File

A vector file is, in short, a line drawing that can be resized an infinite number of times without losing quality. This is because the image is based not on pixels, but on formulaic lines.

Vector files preserve not only the resolution of an image, but also allows designers to store and change standard Pantone colors (which we'll cover next).

Extensions Include:

• .eps
• .ai
• .pdf (the content must be vector-based as well)

Used in:

• Logo files
• T-shirt designs
• Silkscreens
• Die Cuts

Open with:

• Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Acrobat
• AutoCAD (or other CAD related software)

3. The Pantone Matching System (PMS)

Pantone colors come into play when Printers are involved. In short, it's an indexing system that allows printers to identify which colors are which when then do a print job. There are thousands of Pantone colors, and each is assigned a different code like so:

Pantone 281C - a dark blue color

The "C" is the designation which indicates what type of print is being simulated. In this case, Pantone 281C would be the Pantone 281 blue color as it would appear on coated paper. In actuality, the suffix designation doesn't matter as they're all the same ink formula - Pantone 281C is the same as Pantone 281U. The only important thing to keep in mind is consistency. If your designer provides you with a 2-color logo, both Pantone colors should be under the same designation.

A quick overview on suffixes:

• U = Uncoated paper
• C = Coated paper
• M = Matte paper
• CV = Computer Video (electronic simulation)
• CVU = Computer Video - Uncoated
• CVC = Computer Video - Coated

Used in:

• Logo files
• Vector-based files
• 1-Color print jobs
• 2-Color print jobs
• 3-Color print jobs
  (though these are rare since 3-Color usually ends up becoming Full Color)

Referenced in:

• Adobe software color libraries
• Adobe Acrobat
• Pantone color chips and books

It is always useful to know at least a few key concepts before working with your graphic designer

Most experienced designers will give you a basic run-down of the same points I just covered in this post. While it is the designer who takes care of the concept-to-completion, the designer still relies on you, the Client, to provide all the necessary content and raw materials for the best results.

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