Artwork Specifications for Printing.
OK. Here’s how you submit a file for print. Explanations are below in more detail. If you are a graphic designer you will already know most (if you know production) of this, but since we will not be responsible for any errors in your job (if we don’t design, check or prepare the files), it’s a good idea to double-check. If you are not a graphic designer, we highly recommend you have us (or a reputable designer) create the files for you. Not because we’re trying to make more money from you but so you will get good results. Design is a whole other issue. Look at our design page to see why you should have good graphic design.
Color: CMYK, Web Coated SWOP (industry standard profile for best results). Remember that no one can guarantee perfect color.
Resolution: 300 DPI * Tip: In raster programs created your files larger than print size @ 600DPI then you can bring them down to 300 DPI and print size.
Fonts: For most jobs OUTLINE all fonts (in Illustrator. In Corel convert to curves); for catalogs and multi-page brochures; include printer and screen fonts (don’t mix true-type and postscript fonts).
Images: All images must be CMYK, 300 DPI and embedded into the document (no links) unless you supply a folder with all of your support files (again: catalogs, magazines and multi-page brochures).
Overprints: A big issue. Overprints always off for most jobs. Overprints cause knockouts below the overprint element. If you don’t know…
No web images, or web-logos etc. for printing–ever!
Always Use PDF: When in doubt submit a PDF file. You will almost always get a pretty good result.
Bleeds: If your image or color (especially if it’s not flat) “bleeds” over the edge make sure to account for that in the layout. At 1/8″ bleed always!
Safety: Always leave at least 1/8″ safety space between the final trim edge and the design (1/4 is even better). never use borders around a design that will be cut.
More Details
Resolution: Create your files at hi resolution, 300 DPI. If you use a vector program to design the type and then print from an .eps file or PDF created from the vector file, your images will print much sharper. If you export the image to a raster file such as a .tif or jpeg, it will still print nicely as long as the export is at least 300 DPI. Printing vector elements (type etc.) will always yield better results.
Type: For best results with type, make sure any type is created in Adobe Illustrator. Type should be created in a vector program such as Illustrator (Corel Draw is OK too), and In-Design (or Quark) for large, multi-page booklets and especially for small type in brochures and business cards. You can still create type in Photoshop or other raster programs but it should be ultra-high resolution and even still it may print slightly blurry around the edges. Small type should be high contrast and in an easy-to-read style if you have large amounts of copy. Reverse type (i.e. white on black) shouldn’t be smaller that 9 point and only use bold on larger sizes. Type should always be easy to read.