Vector images use a mathematical formula to define lines and shapes rather than the pixels used to determine the resolution of a raster image such as a "JPG." Since the equation of vector images is always constant, the image itself can be resized to any dimensions without losing its original properties. While newer versions of "Adobe Illustrator" feature a "Live Trace" tool to convert raster images to vectors, more consistent results are achieved by importing a raster image and tracing it by hand.
Instructions
1. Open Adobe Illustrator and select "Open..." from the "File" menu. Then browse to the JPG you wish to convert to a vector. Click the "Open" button to import the image to the canvas.
2. Click the "Layers" palette button on the right toolbar to expand it. Right click "Layer 1" and place a check next to "Dim images to:." Leave the dim value at its default of 50 percent.
3. Click the "Toggles Lock" checkbox to lock Layer 1, then select the "Create New Layer" icon at the bottom of the layers palette. Click the newly-created "Layer 2" to select it, then hit "P" to select the pen tool.
4. Trace the image using the pen tool. Click once, then click again to make a straight line between two points. Click and drag to create a curve, then hold down the "Alt" key and click the last point to end the curve.
5. Trace the image completely, adjusting the line and fill color in the left toolbar as needed. Right-click "Layer 1" and select "Delete" after completing the trace. Click "Save As..." from the "File" menu to save the new vector image.
