How should graphics be formatted for pixel dimensions and artboard size?

Question

I have had no formal training with Illustrator, but I use it almost every day.

When preparing new graphics that will be used across many formats -- what size artboard should I use in relation to the graphic size?

If I have a 40x40 pixel graphic with a 2 pixel stroke it could potentially be a 44x44, but Illustrator will still read it as 40x40. Meaning if the artboard is 40x40 it will not actually export the completed graphic when I export using artboards.

Is there a professional/industry standard rule of them for setting artboard sizes? I’ve never seen any proper training about preparing files for use across different formats and dimensions.

Should I set the artboard size after I create my graphic and size the artboard manually?

Monika Gause · Accepted Answer

The original can be as large/small as you like. Just remember that some features are not available in small sizes (e.g. the corner widget).

You need to always keep size in mind when setting up line widths etc.

It makes a lot of sense to keep the original with strokes, effects or whatnot still intact. Whether you keep that in a separate file or just on a different artboard is up to you and how you organize your work.

lambiloon · Answer

Hi can you create multiple artsboards in your file for every size which you want then use 72dpi for output to match the artboard size...regards

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