We have prepared the following guide to assist you with your electronic file preparation and submission. If you have a specific problem that is not covered in this guide, or have other questions, please feel free to contact us. Improperly prepared
files can cause delays in manufacturing.
Quick Checklist
- All linked files, images, and fonts are placed in separate folders.
- Artwork matches the specified dimensions.
- All fonts are included.
- Page layout is correct.
- Colors in CMYK mode.
- Margins are set.
Bleeds
A 1/8" border must be added to pictures and designs bleeding to the edge, so that there is no white space or border showing around the artwork. It is also important to keep text at least a 1/4" away from the paper edge or the trim line to prevent
accidental cropping.
Color Specifications
Print previews are not a safe and sure measuring tool for color accuracy. Colors on the file might be affected by monitor calibration, screen resolution, and lighting. Many Pantone colors show a marked color shift when converted to four color process.
For one, two or three color jobs printed in Pantone spot color, make sure your colors are specified as spot color and they separate correctly. You can test this by printing separations on your laser printer.
To achieve the desired color on press, digital files must reflect accurate color models and percentage. Please make sure all colors are in CMYK mode for color accuracy and better quality output.
Image Resolutions
- Screen values should be between 133 lpi and 150 lpi.
- Rasterized text or logos should be 1200 dpi.
- All images and pictures should be 300 dpi.
Guidelines by Application
Adobe Photoshop
- Files should be saved in PDF format (embed all fonts and set the screen value to 133 lpi.)
- Files should be 300 dpi at 100% of actual size for quality offset reproduction.
Digital Proofs
We provide PDF files as electronic soft proofs. These digital proofs intend to show you the layout and design elements of your job, but cannot be a guarantee of color accuracy. If color accuracy is of extreme importance to you, please ask for a hard
copy proof.
Scan all transparencies and line art at 100% of final size unless data size is prohibitive. If such a case occurs, scan at 1/4 or 1/2 of final size.