What actually changes.
A PDF can contain pixels or vectors. Vector Boy writes the closed paths of the cleaned form rather than placing a screenshot in the file.
The source is separated into black and white first. Connected black pixels form areas, their outer boundaries and counters are detected, and those contours are translated into closed Bézier paths.
A useful source has
- clear separation between motif and background
- enough resolution for the smallest intended stroke
- even light without reflections across the motif
- no perspective distortion when geometry matters
Step by step.
- Load the source into the Vector Boy canvas.
- Tune black level, contrast and brightness while comparing with the original.
- Remove marks that do not belong to the design.
- Inspect the Vector view and select Pixel precise, Fine or Subpixel contouring.
- Smooth visible stair steps and simplify Bézier paths conservatively.
- Download PDF after checking closed contours and counters.
Important limitation
Open the PDF in software that preserves vector objects. Rasterising it again removes the benefit of scalable paths.
Questions before export.
How can I tell whether a PDF is vector based?
Zoom in closely or open it in vector software. Clean paths stay sharp and can be selected as objects.
Is PDF the default download?
Yes. Vector Boy highlights PDF as the straightforward vector format for handoff.