How to convert a dull image to a print ready image using totally FREE softwares. The image can further be used for the website applications or sign cutting programs like Flexicut etc.
Technically it is converted from JPEG to Vector graphics.
Vector art is the way of graphics where the size increase of the object or picture etc. is in conjunction with the quality. To me it means that when we increase the size of the object, the clarity of the object is still crystal clear. It is not losing pixels or getting blurry as in the case of a JPEG image. When we increase the size of a JPEG image, its quality is lost. See the example below.
Interestingly, image B is made out of image A but image A loses its quality when the size is increased because its a JPEG image. Where as the image B (As long as it is a vector art file) never loses its quality. The size may vary (mm, cm, inches, feet or meters really doesn’t matter!)
Real Example
Image A
Image B
How to Do it?
Step 1: Choose an image. I have chosen this image because its a good example of small portions inside a square. It is a small image (55×60 pixels, 9.89 kb), and can help me to make the point I am explaining here. (Same clarity with bigger size). It is also part of a logo for an appliance company and one of the customers I made a website for has full authorization to use the logo on his van.
Step 2: Save the image on your desktop. (Easier to work with) Lets say the file name is “A.jpg”
Step 3: Open the Inkscape. Inkscape is the totally free program that will do the job. If you want to get it, go on my website and click “Get Inkscape” at the bottom.
Step 4: Click “A.jpg”, drag and release it on the working page of the inkscape. You will see the small image surrounded by the arrows to increase or decrease the size.
Step 5: Click on the “Path” menu on the top menu bar and choose “Trace Bitmap”.
Step 6: In the dialogue box that appears, change “Scans” number from “8” to “256” and click the “Update” button on the right. Generally, whatever update shows, click “OK” at the bottom of the dialogue box. The image B is traced exactly on the top of the image A.
Step 7: Click and drag the image B away.
Step 8: Increase the size of the image B. See how clear it is! Now you can increase the size of the image A to match the size of the image B but quality will be far inferior.
Step 9: Delete the image A out of the page and save file as an .svg file.
Step 10: If you need to transfer the file to a printing or a cutting program as Flexicut, save the file as .pdf.
These are the simple steps to convert an image from dull to crisp and ready for printing, cutting or for websites. All free of cost!
