*The Difference Between PNG, SVG, JPG & PDF – Which One Do You Need?

The Difference Between PNG, SVG, JPG & PDF – Which One Do You Need?

Ever downloaded a cute file or digital bundle and thought: “What the heck do I do with a PNG vs. an SVG?” You’re not alone! Whether you're a Cricut crafter, sublimation beginner, or a digital artist using Procreate, understanding these common file types can make or break your next project.

Let’s break it all down and help you figure out exactly which file format works best for your setup — plus I’ll link to a few of my favorite files and tools along the way!

PNG Files – Transparent Backgrounds & Vibrant Prints

Best for: UVDTF decals, DTF transfers, sublimation printing, Procreate art, Canva mockups, clipart, and glass can wraps.

What’s a PNG?
PNG stands for Portable Network Graphics and it supports transparency. That means no white boxes behind your art — just clean, crisp cutouts. If you're using UVDTF transfers, sublimation paper, or printable vinyl, PNG is your go-to.

Great Use Cases:

• Glass can wraps (like these 16 oz PNG designs)

• Clipart + element sheets for decals

• Printable designs for sublimation tumblers, mugs, and shirts

• Layering images in Canva or Procreate

Pro Tip: All PNGs in my shop are 300+ DPI and optimized for commercial or small business use.

SVG Files – Cut Files for Cricut, Silhouette, and More

Best for: Cricut Design Space, Silhouette Studio, cutting HTV (heat transfer vinyl), permanent vinyl, paper crafts, stickers, and layered projects.

What’s an SVG?
SVG stands for Scalable Vector Graphic. These are editable vector files that don’t lose quality no matter how big or small you scale them — perfect for making shirts, decals, or cards.

Great Use Cases:

• HTV vinyl decals on shirts or tote bags

• Permanent vinyl stickers on cups, notebooks, or keychains

• Stickers and paper craft elements

• Layered cut designs for multicolor vinyl projects

Need ready-to-cut designs? Check out my SVG + PNG sets here.

JPG Files – Backgrounds, Patterns & Mockups

Best for: Fabric printing, scrapbook pages, mockups, printable papers, and non-transparent projects.

JPG (or JPEG) files are compressed image files that do not support transparent backgrounds. They're great for full-color patterns, seamless prints, or backgrounds for layered designs.

Use JPGs for:

• Patterned backgrounds in Procreate or Canva

• Simple full-coverage printables

• Fabric or vinyl prints from small printers

Check out some of our non-seamless print patterns — great for jelly rolls, fat quarters, or background layering.

PDF Files – Fixed Layouts for Printables & Forms

Best for: Printable design guides, forms, coloring pages, and vendor documentation.

PDF files are awesome for when you want a layout to stay exactly as you created it. They're commonly used for business paperwork, license terms, or downloadable guides.

Examples in my shop:

• Procreate 101 Guide (PDF)

• Vendor waiver forms and commercial license policy PDFs

• Printable checklists and templates

Lingo + Keywords (Quick Reference Table)

Recommended Tools & Trusted Brands

These are my go-to resources for crafting, designing, and printing. Some may become affiliate links soon, but I only recommend what I love:

Crafting Tools

• Cricut Maker – perfect for SVG cut files

• Silhouette Cameo – great for HTV & vinyl

• Epson EcoTank – ideal for sublimation beginners

Printable Materials & Decals

• Crafty Printers Co. – UVDTF and DTF sheets

• Designs by Madi – printed vinyl & decals

• Expressions Vinyl – huge HTV & permanent vinyl selection

Blanks & Supplies

• 151 Blanks – glass cans, keychains, pens

• Zindee Studios – keychain blanks, acrylics

• Heat Transfer Warehouse – HTV, printers, blanks

Digital Design Tools

• Procreate – my go-to drawing app

• Canva – mockups, social graphics

• Affinity Designer – great for SVG editing

Still Confused About File Types?

No worries! File types can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you’re starting with crafting, printing, or digital art. But once you get the hang of it, you'll know exactly what to look for in a listing and how to use each file format.

Want to come back to this later?  Click HERE to pin this blog!

If you have any questions or need help choosing the right file, DM me on Instagram or email procreativeacademy@icloud.com — I’m always happy to help!

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Thanks for being here and learning with me!

– Natasha at McKnight Designs & Co
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