Make sure you get the best possible results! We've assembled this list of guidelines so your full color print job is able to be processed as smoothly as possible.
Media
We can accept files in the following formats: Jaz, Zip, 3.5" Floppy Disk, CD-Rom. Please include a printout of all the files on the disk. Create three folders: fonts, documents and images. You should also include a text file with any special instructions on how to print your job. Note: Keep a backup copy of all files that you send us.
Electronic Files
Submit your files in one of these formats: QuarkXpress (Mac), InDesign (Mac), Adobe Illustrator (Mac), Adobe Photoshop (Mac).
Image Formats
You should supply all native and imported files. All images must be either EPS or TIF. You should save all images at high-resolution (300dpi). You must convert all RGB color images to CMYK or spot color.
Scanning
All line art (b/w) images must be scanned at 600 - 1200dpi. All full color and gray scale images must be scanned at 300dpi. Scanners often capture color images in RGB format. These scanned images MUST be converted to CMYK before we can accept them for printing. Hint: Always scan images at the size you will use in your page layout.
Fonts
You must use Type 1 Postscript fonts. Make sure you include both the screen and printer fonts for every font you use.
Colors
We print 4 process (CMYK) colors and spot (PANTONETM) colors. Do not use the default red, green or blue colors available on your color palette as these do not accurately convert to CMYK.
Bleeds
Set your document size to the exact size of your finished piece. If your design includes images or color fills that extend to the edge of your final printed page - you must create bleeds. Make sure your images or color fills extend 1/16" past the page edge.
Trapping
We perform basic color trapping as part of our normal pre-press operations.
Proofs
Make sure you have supplied us with both a composite and separate printouts for each color plate (CMYK). In addition, you must supply a separate printout for each PANTONETM color you use. Label all text, images and photos that you wish to print in color.
Questions
If you have any questions regarding how to correctly set up your files for printing, please do not hesitate to call us. 1.800.726.9371
