Mastering SVG Exports in Illustrator for Microstocks & Web Design

Hi Creators!

Today, we're diving deep into the essential process of saving your Adobe Illustrator artwork in SVG format, particularly for maximizing your success on microstock platforms and artist marketplaces.

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is a powerful vector-based image format that uses XML to define graphics. Unlike raster images (like JPEGs or PNGs), SVGs are resolution-independent, meaning they can be scaled to any size without losing quality.

This makes them ideal for:

Web Design: Clean, crisp icons, logos, and illustrations that adapt perfectly to any screen size.

Microstocks: High-quality, scalable assets that appeal to a wide range of clients.

Print: Scalable graphics for various print applications.

Saving Your Illustrator Works in SVG Format for Microstocks and Marketplaces (and Web Design):

1. Initiate the Export:

- Go to File > Export > Export As.

- Enter your desired file name and choose the destination folder.

- In the "Save as type" dropdown, select "SVG (*.SVG)".

- Crucially, check "Use Artboards". If you're exporting specific artboards, specify the "Range".

- Click "Export".

2. Precisely Configure the SVG Options:

- Styles: Select "Internal CSS". This consolidates styles into a single <style> tag with CSS classes, optimizing file size by sharing style definitions among objects with similar appearances.

- Font: Choose "SVG". This embeds the font outlines directly into the SVG, ensuring consistent display across different platforms, even if the user doesn't have the font installed.

- Images: Select "Save". This embeds raster images within the SVG. If you have linked images, ensure they are embedded for portability.

- ID Object: Opt for "Layer Names". This helps maintain organization and clarity, particularly crucial for web developers and microstock clients who might need to manipulate individual elements.

- Decimal value: "2". This balances file size with precision. While increasing decimal places enhances accuracy, it also significantly increases file size. 2 decimal places is a good standard.

- Minify: Leave unchecked. While minification can reduce file size, it may sometimes complicate editing for clients.

- Responsive: Check the box for "Responsive SVG". This will add viewbox attribute to your SVG, allowing it to scale responsively.

3. Click "OK".

Useful Tips for SVG Exports:

1. Simplify Paths: Complex paths increase file size. Simplify paths using Object > Path > Simplify before exporting.

2. Clean Up Your Artboard: Remove any unnecessary elements or stray points.

3. Test Your SVG: After exporting, open the SVG in a web browser or another vector program to ensure it renders correctly.

4. Consider SVG Optimization Tools: After exporting, you can use online SVG optimization tools (like SVGOMG) to further reduce file size without compromising quality.

5. Color Mode: Use RGB color mode, as this is the standard for web use.

6. Metadata: Consider adding relevant metadata to your SVG files for microstock platforms.

Did you find this guide helpful? Please leave a comment or like this post! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me create more useful content.

Happy creating!

Thank you,

YuliDor