File Preparation

File Types:

We highly prefer PDF print ready files. This will ensure the fastest turn-around and highest quality. However, we also accept .ai, .psd, .jpg, .jpeg, .tif, .eps

Export settings for .PDF files:

When exporting from any program such as Photoshop, Indesign or Illustrator, use these settings to make sure your .PDF files export correctly:

1. Adobe PDF Preset is set to: Press Quality:
2. Compatibility is set to: Acrobat 4 or higher:
3. Compress Text and Line Art is set to: Off

Color:

CMYK colorspace

If you send us a file in RGB, there is a strong chance that a color shift may occur and you may not be satisfied with your job.  You should always start and finish your designs in CMYK color mode.

These colors are in RGB

These are the same colors but in CMYK

Flatten Artwork:

All files must be flattened with all fonts outlined and embedded

It's very important that you flatten your file before saving your file as a PDF. If you are using Photoshop, Indesign or Illustrator you should have a single background layer before you save as a PDF.

Before you flatten your image, you should rasterize all layers, including any fonts. This will ensure your fonts are outline and embedded, as well as prevent errors when saving as a PDF. Always check you PDF for errors before uploading.

Bleed:

Safe Area:

Resolution:

Minimum resolution of 300dpi

As you can see, even though on your computer screen your artwork may look crisp, once printed, they will not look good at all unless they are saved at a 300dpi resolution:

Crop Marks:

We suggest that you specify trim area with crop marks (Don't place crop marks inside the work area)

Confused?