Setting a Layer Export Format

How to Set a Layer Export File Format: PNG, SVG, PDF, or EPS

Selecting the right export file format is crucial when working with design layers, especially when preparing your artwork for specific output needs. Whether you're preparing a design for digital use, high-quality print, or vector-based manipulation, the file format you choose can significantly affect the quality, scalability, and usability of your design. This guide will walk you through how to configure the file format for exporting layers and explain when to use each of the four most common formats: PNG, SVG, PDF, and EPS.

Access Layer Settings:

1. Click on the three dots (ellipses) on the left-hand panel next to the layer name.
2. Select Settings (gear icon) from the menu.

Configure the Export File Format

Once you’re in the settings menu, locate the Export File Format options. Here, you can choose from several formats to define how your design will be exported. These formats each serve different purposes, and understanding their uses will help you decide which one best suits your needs.

Example: Adjusting the Export File Format

1. PNG (Portable Network Graphics)

• What it does: The PNG format is a raster image format, meaning it stores pixel-based images. It supports transparent backgrounds, making it ideal for web designs, logos, and images that require a clean, sharp edge without a solid background.
• Typical use: Best used for web graphics, icons, or any design where you need a high-quality, transparent background image. It’s also the go-to format for images that don’t require scaling or large-size adjustments.

2. SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics)

• What it does: The SVG format is a vector-based format, meaning it stores shapes, paths, and other vector elements as mathematical equations rather than pixels. This allows the file to be infinitely scaled without any loss of quality.
• Typical use: Ideal for logos, illustrations, web graphics, or designs that need to be resized without distortion. Since SVGs are vector files, they are particularly useful for laser cutting, CNC machining, or responsive web design.

3. PDF (Portable Document Format)

• What it does: The PDF format is a versatile file type that can handle both vector and raster data. It’s widely used for sharing documents that need to retain precise formatting across various platforms. PDF is often used for print-ready designs because it can embed fonts, colors, and images in a resolution-independent way.
• Typical use: Common for print files, multi-page documents, and designs that need to be preserved in a specific layout. It’s also great for designs that will be shared or printed across different devices or platforms, as PDFs ensure consistent appearance regardless of where they are viewed.

4. EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)

• What it does: The EPS format is a vector-based file type that is compatible with most design software and printers. It supports scalable images and is often used for high-quality graphic exports, particularly when working with professional print shops.

• Typical use: Ideal for high-quality printing, logos, and designs intended for commercial printing or use in professional design workflows. EPS files can also contain raster elements but are typically used for scalable vector graphics.

Best Practices for Exporting Layer Files

When Exporting for Web Use:

• PNG is often the best choice for web-based designs that require transparency or are used as icons, buttons, or small images that do not need to be scaled. It is also ideal for web images with intricate details and color gradients.

When Exporting for Print:

• PDF is the preferred format when preparing designs for printing, especially for documents that need to maintain specific formatting or multiple pages.
• EPS is another great option for high-resolution print projects, particularly when you're working with logos or large-scale graphics that need to be printed without losing clarity.

When Scalability is Important:

• SVG is the best option when you need a design that can be resized infinitely without any loss of quality. It’s a must-have for logos, illustrations, and vector-based graphics that might need to be printed on anything from a business card to a billboard.

Summary

Choosing the correct export file format for your layer will depend on your intended output. Here’s a quick rundown:

• PNG: Use for web graphics, icons, and images with transparency.
• SVG: Use for scalable vector graphics, such as logos and illustrations that need to be resized without losing quality.
• PDF: Ideal for print-ready files, especially for multi-page documents or designs that need to maintain a consistent appearance across devices.
• EPS: Use for professional print projects, such as logos or high-resolution designs that require compatibility with industry-standard printers.

By selecting the right file format for your project, you can ensure the best quality and performance for your designs across a variety of mediums and uses.

Updated on: 08/01/2025