File Types we accept to get going on printing right away
• .EPS – Encapsulated PostScript- of any type
• .PSD – Adobe PhotoShop
• .AI – Adobe Illustrator
• .PDF – Portable Document Format
• Tiff Image Format
• Jpeg Image Format
Color Theory
- While we can work with files in both RGB and CMYK colors mode, we do prefer to work with CMYK colors whenever possible.
- If you require PMS color matching, let us know the PMS colors that are critical and include a hard copy proof to match to.
- When color is critical aka PMS Callouts, please do not embed images or flatten the layers. Instead, leave the layers intact and link to any images.(.PSD Format) & (.EPS/.AI Format)
- Maintain the same color mode throughout your work space (i.e. do not set up your document in CMYK color and then link or embed images that are in RGB colors if possible). Mixing color modes in the same document can produce unexpected results.
Vector Files
Adobe Illustrator (AI, EPS & PDF) Make sure to place your artwork on the artboard. The artboard has to be the same size as your artwork. Embed all images. If you have more than one artwork, define artboards for each artwork.
Because vector files are based on lines, rather than pixels like raster-based files, they are scalable without losing resolution. Therefore, the artwork will not become pixilated and jagged when it’s enlarged, so the most critical element with vector files is that they are setup proportionately to the final output size.
We highly recommend using vector-based artwork and text on larger graphics whenever possible for optimum results and easier file management. If raster-based photos or images are to be used, please refer to the raster file guidelines below.
Raster/Bitmap
Adobe Photoshop (TIFF, PSD, JPEG & PDF) Flatten all your layers before sending your file for print If we’re not going to be editing/modifying the files.
For banners designed to be viewed at less than 24″, your resolution should be 300 dpi at final size. For designs that are to be viewed beyond 24″, we recommend a resolution of 150 dpi at final size.
For very large banners that are going to be viewed from a distance, 50-100 dpi resolution at final size is perfectly fine and will make it easier to work with the files size wise.
Scale
When scaling your raster-based files, keep in mind each time we need to double the size of your artwork, the resolution drops by half. So if you provide us with artwork that is 1’H x 2’W at 600 dpi resolution at 1/4 scale, the artwork will be 4’H x 8’W at 150 dpi when we enlarge the file to the final size. Keep this in mind when creating your original artwork, as this is critical to getting the best print possible. We do recommend creating your artwork at 1/4 – 1/2 scale for most applications. We do not recommend designing your artwork at less than 1/12 scale.
Compression
Do not compress the files or use any type of compressed format, such as JPEG, unless that’s the only option you have for your original images.
Fonts/Images Include all fonts & Images used in your document If we are going to be editing or revising artworks on our end.
Setup your document in proportion to your final output size and desired resolution at FINAL size.
