Correct format

[Ann Mackenzie]

A client is requesting SVG for printing a complex Illustrator logo on a large flag. Is this the right format for that purpose?

[Bobby Henderson]

The "correct format" depends on how the company is going to produce the graphics on the flag and the software they use to do so. Is the logo being printed, cut out of material, embroidered, etc?

[Ann Mackenzie]

Not sure how they are printing the flags, so I'll provide them with Illuatrator files (.ai & PDF), and the SVGs they requested and stand by to supply whatever else they need. Thanks so much for your quick response!

[michelew83603738 · Accepted solution]

Generally speaking, svg is used for web/digital applications. It allows scaling easily so that the logo, for example, can be adapted to various screen sizes. Is their printer asking for an svg? Usually, for print, you would supply the .ai file itself or most commonly a pdf.

[Ann Mackenzie]

That was my opinion, too, but wanted to double-check. I have advised my client of what you confirmed, and will provide them with .ai, Illustrator PDFs, as well as the SVG they asked for, and stand by for whatever else they need. Thanks so much for your quick response!

[michelew83603738]

You're welcome.

[Bobby Henderson · Accepted solution]

Sometimes SVG files can be used to feed artwork into industry specific production hardware, such as embroidery machines, laser engravers, vinyl cutters, etc. However, I think it's better for the shops doing the production work to export the SVG files on their end. There are multiple flavors of SVG and they don't all get along with various kinds of industry specific software and hardware. A customer could supply an art file in SVG format and it might fail to load. It's usually safer for the customer to supply a more general purpose vector format like Adobe Illustrator AI. The production shop can export SVG files in the specific version needed. Customers still need to follow some artwork submission guidelines to avoid problems when sending art in a format like Illustrator AI. Requirements are going to vary based on what kind of work is being produced.

[Ann Mackenzie]

Great answer - thanks for your thoroughness!