Artwork Guidelines

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We have prepared the following guidelines 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 or use the FAQ. Improperly prepared files can cause delays in manufacturing and possibly reprints.


Quick Checklist

Before sending your design work for offset printing, ensure the following:

  1. File Format and Compatibility:
    • Save files in a format compatible with offset printing (e.g., PDF, JPG, or AI).
    • Ensure the file is flattened and does not contain unnecessary layers or hidden elements.
  1. Resolution:
    • All images and artwork must be at least 300 dpi for standard printing.
    • Rasterized text or logos should be at 1200 dpi for the best quality.
  1. Fonts:
    • All fonts must be outlined or embedded to prevent font substitution.
    • Verify that text is legible, crisp, and free from pixelation.
  1. Colors:
    • Convert all colors to CMYK mode. Avoid RGB as it may lead to color inconsistencies during printing.
    • Check for spot colors if applicable and ensure they are correctly defined.
  1. Bleeds and Margins:
    • Set bleeds to at least 0.125" beyond the cut-line.
    • Keep all important information and text at least 0.25" inside the cut-line.
  1. Page Layout and Dimensions:
    • Ensure the front and back layouts are correctly oriented and it is as you intended.
    • Verify that the artwork matches the specified dimensions of the final product.
  1. Safety Area:
    • Confirm that all critical elements (text, logos, borders etc.) are within the safety area to avoid being trimmed off.
  1. Proofreading:
    • Double-check for spelling, grammar, or layout errors before submission.
    • Verify all contact details and essential information are accurate.
  1. File Size and Naming:
    • Keep file sizes manageable. Compress large files appropriately without losing quality to no more than 500gb.
    • Use descriptive and clear file names to avoid confusion.
  1. Special Printing Requirements:
    • If the job includes special finishes (e.g., foil stamping, embossing, or Spot UV coating), clearly mark the areas and provide a separate layer or file with specifications.
  1. Final Check:
    • Review the preflight checklist in your design software to catch any overlooked issues.
    • Include detailed instructions or notes for the printer, if necessary.


Bleeds

To ensure a polished and high-quality final product, bleed should extend beyond the cut-line by at least 0.125” and will be trimmed during the final cutting phase. Bleed is necessary when the image extends all the way to the edge. It's important to keep all text and essential elements at least 0.25" inside the cut-line.


Recommended Bleeds by Product:

  • Brochures, Booklets, Calendars, Letterheads, Business Cards: 0.125" all around.
  • Postcards, Club Flyers, Digital Orders, Rack Cards, Sell Sheets, Bookmarks, Door Hangers, Stickers, Table Tents: No extra bleed, just safety area is needed. We will trim an additional 1/16" all around. This reduces costs and keeps prices down.

When selecting a size (e.g., 4×6), the final product will be slightly smaller due to the 1/16" trim on all sides. If a different size is submitted, the image may be adjusted to fit the chosen space or centered based on the specified dimensions, followed by the standard trim. For true sizes, we recommend requesting a custom quote.


Note for Large Format Products:

You do not need to include bleeds. Bleeds are added automatically for large-format items.


Color Specifications

When sending a print job, it is essential to convert your content from RGB to CMYK color mode. This is because:

  • RGB (Red, Green, Blue): Used for electronic displays, with a wider color gamut that produces vibrant colors not achievable in print.
  • CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black): Used for printing, ensuring accurate color reproduction on paper.

Converting to CMYK before submission minimizes color shifts and ensures your printed result closely matches your expectations. By working in CMYK, you have better control over the final output.


Image Resolutions

  • Standard Images and Pictures: 300 dpi.
  • Rasterized Text or Logos: 1200 dpi.
  • Screen Values: Between 133 lpi and 150 lpi.

Files with low resolution may either be printed as is or put on hold until new files are received, potentially delaying turnaround time. For large-format jobs exceeding standard design software dimensions, design at scale and include a note on scale proportion if necesary.


Guidelines by Application


Adobe Photoshop:

  • Files should be 300 dpi at 100% of actual size for quality offset reproduction.
  • Black type should be set to multiply in your layer window to prevent ghosting.
  • Design in CMYK mode.
  • Flatten your design before submission.
  • Save files as PDF, JPG, or JPEG.

Adobe Illustrator:

  • Files should be 300 dpi.
  • Black type should be set to multiply to prevent ghosting.
  • Design in CMYK mode.
  • Outline all fonts.
  • Avoid using transparencies to prevent printing distortions.
  • Do not use the overprint option unless necessary.
  • Save files as PDF.


Digital Proofs

We provide PDF files as electronic soft proofs. These proofs show the layout and design elements but cannot guarantee color accuracy. If color accuracy is critical, request a hard copy proof.