To ensure high-quality results and avoid delays in the production process, please adhere to the following guidelines when preparing your print-ready files for submission.
Accepted File Formats
Preferred Formats: PDF (Press Quality), AI (Adobe Illustrator), EPS, PSD (Adobe Photoshop), INDD (Adobe InDesign).
When submitting native files be sure to package or embed any linked images and fonts.
Other Acceptable Formats: TIFF, JPEG (High Resolution, CMYK).
Avoid: Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, or Excel files. These are not suitable for professional printing.
See Creating Press ready .pdf Files for more information.
Resolution & Image Quality
Minimum Resolution: 300 DPI (dots per inch) at 100% of the final print size.
Images: Ensure all images and graphics are high-resolution and embedded within the file.
Avoid: Using web-quality images (72 DPI) as they will appear pixelated in print.
Color Mode & Color Matching
Color Mode: Convert all files to CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) before submission. RGB files may result in color shifts.
Pantone Colors: If exact color matching is required, use Pantone Matching System (PMS) colors and clearly specify the Pantone name (Ex: 288U, Reflex Blue, Etc.).
Proofing: For color-critical projects, request a printed proof to ensure color accuracy.
Bleed, Trim, and Safe Zones
Bleed: Your artwork should have a 0.125” (1/8 inch) bleed on all sides of your document. This ensures that artwork extends beyond the final cut line to avoid white edges.
Trim Line: This is the final size of your printed piece after cutting.
Safe Zone: Keep all important text, logos, and design elements at least 0.25″ (1/4 inch) inside the trim line to avoid accidental cutting.
See Creating a Bleed for more information.
Fonts & Text
Convert Text to Outlines/Paths: This prevents font issues during printing. In Illustrator or InDesign, select text and use “Create Outlines.”
Embed Fonts: If submitting a PDF, ensure all fonts are embedded.
Font Size: Avoid using fonts smaller than 6pt for readability, especially in fine print.
File Organization & Naming
File Names: Use descriptive file names (e.g., “Company_Brochure_Final.pdf”) and avoid special characters.
Multiple Files: If submitting multiple files (e.g., for multi-page projects), number them sequentially.
Folders & Compression: Organize your files in clearly labeled folders and compress them into a ZIP file for easy transfer.
Additional Design Considerations
Borders & Frames: Use with caution, as slight shifts during trimming can make borders appear uneven.
Transparency & Layers: Flatten transparency layers where possible and avoid complex layering to reduce the risk of printing errors.
Overprint Settings: Check that overprint settings are applied correctly to avoid unexpected results.
Proofing & Approval
Pre-Press Proofs: Request a soft or hard proof to review color, layout, and overall design before final printing.
Approval: Confirm approval in writing before the job proceeds to print.
Submission Methods
Email: For files under 20MB.
Cloud Services: Use Dropbox, Google Drive, or WeTransfer for larger files. Ensure shared links have the correct permissions.
Direct Upload: Use our online submission portal here.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forgetting to include bleed areas.
Submitting files in RGB instead of CMYK.
Using low-resolution images.
Not converting text to outlines.
Missing embedded images or linked files.
Following these guidelines will help ensure your project is printed correctly, on time, and without unexpected issues. If you have any questions about preparing your files, contact us before submission.
Go to: Creating Press Ready .PDF Files | Go to: Creating a Bleed | Go to: File Upload
