We have prepared the following guide to assist you with your artwork preparation. If you have a specific problem that is not covered in this guide, or have other questions, please feel free to contact us. Artwork that is not prepared properly can lead to issues in production.
Quick Checklist
â–ºAll fonts are included
â–ºType is legible and crisp.
â–ºPage layout is correct.
â–ºMargins are set.
â–ºArtwork matches the specified dimensions.
â–ºAll linked files, images, and fonts are placed in separate folders.
â–ºColors in CMYK mode.
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. This will prevent issues in trimming.
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, just to name a few. Many Pantone colors show a marked color shift when converted to four color process.
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 a better quality output.
Image Resolutions
â–ºAll images and pictures should be 300 dpi.
â–ºRasterized text or logos should be 1200 dpi.
â–ºScreen values should be between 133 lpi and 150 lpi.
Guidelines by Application
The following outlines the specific file requirements by application. If you have any questions, please contact our graphics department.
Adobe Photoshop
â–ºFiles should be 300 dpi at 100% of actual size for quality offset reproduction.
â–ºFiles should be saved in PDF format (embed all fonts and set the screen value to 133 lpi.)
Digital Proofs
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.
