FILE PREP INFO
Please read through all the provided info carefully when supplying us with files for your print project. Reach out if you have any questions, and feel free to download a PDF version of this page below.
PRINT FILE PREPARATION
All files should be in one of the following formats
PDF
Save as High Quality Print (use all default settings) and outline all fonts. All linked images need to be embedded.
EPS
Save as CS5 EPS as the RIP software does not work with CS6. Outline all fonts and embed linked images.
AI
Use the default settings and outline all fonts. All linked images need to be embedded.
TIFF
Save as an uncompressed PC/Windows TIFF
Jpeg
Save as the maximum quality (12) with no compression
Other instructions
1. Files MUST have all type and strokes converted to outlines.
2. Files MUST be at full scale unless they are larger than what AI or PS can handle.
3. Bitmap images, even those embedded in an EPS or PDF should be at the proper dpi when full size. DO NOT SEND LARGE IMAGES AT A HIGH DPI. This does not make the print quality any better.
The following rules should be applied to bitmap resolution;
- 11x17 or smaller - 600dpi
- 11x17 up to 24x36 - 300dpi
- 24x36 up to 48x96 - 150dpi
- 48x96 and up 36-72 dpi
4. Double check all print PDF's for transparency issues. Poor use of embedded images and their transparencies will often cause white block in the printing process.
5. Include desired trim lines: If you would like trim lines, place the outlines where desired.
6. Clearly indicate any white space or areas outside the visible artwork that must be included in the final product. Only include necessary artwork in the file. Only include necessary artwork in the file. When creating your art work, always choose the artboard dimensions to match the dimensions you want the printed product to be, and include desired white space. When sending multiples in one file, clearly indicate the exact dimensions and quantity of each print job.
7. Always preview any print PDF in Adobe Reader, not your design program. Common errors will often be spotted in this simple step. If you are sending your print job other than full scale, set the view scale at much higher to look for print issues. If designing at 50%, set the view scale to 200% to see what it will look like at full size. Look closely to ensure your resolution will be acceptable. Make sure all elements are present and appear as your expect them too.
cut vinyl preparation
1. All cut files MUST be at size. If this is not possible, all scaled dimensions must be indicated in file title or inside the working file.
2. All type and strokes MUST be outlined.
3. A single cut-able object MUST have all of it's components merged together, including strokes and any holes or voids.
Print & Cut Vinyl Preparation
1. All die cut files MUST be at size. The physical limit to what can be print and cut is 38" wide by 144" long.
2. All die cuts should have at least a 1/8" bleed.
3. All die cut lines MUST be on their own layer in the EPS or AI file and indicated as such.
4. All die cuts MUST be set to lowest stroke point and composed of 100% Magenta.
COLOUR ACCURACY
It is by nature that CMYK digital printing cannot match all desired colours, as it has a reduced gamut in comparison to RGB. If colour accuracy is critical it's best to order a test print of your colours first for verification, as we cannot guarantee colour accurate prints.