Graphic Specs

General Guidelines for Graphic Ready to Print Digital Artwork

To help you prepare your file for printing we have some guidelines that should be followed in order to obtain the best results.

Placed images

Assembled files need to be accompanied by updating all placed images. For example, if you have assembled your file in QuarkXpress and have placed images, those need to be included in the format in which they were originated. All photos must be scaled as large as possible to obtain the highest resolution.

Color

We recommend all colors be defined in CMYK format, but we will accept RGB. All Pantone coated color numbers should be supplied in written form for reference or left as they are. If a color comp can not be sent, include a .jpg, .pdf (screen optimized) or screenshot file. Clearly mark filename as "proof".

All black (except as noted below) should be in four color black which is created using the following values: 25% cyan, 25% magenta, 25% yellow and 100% black.

Expand MediaFabric, FlagStand, FlagStand XL Black must be defined as 4-Color CMYK (40,30,30,100).

Flex-display Banner Stands: Black must be defined as 4-Color CMYK (50,25,25,100).

Resolution

All photos should be at least 130DPI to 150DPI at 100% size. (300DPI @ 50% or 600DPI @ 25%). Resolutions differ for each printing system, it is extremely important that calculations be accurate on your DPI or your image will produce poorly.

Bleed

All graphics require bleed. Bleed requirements for each product are located in the pdf files provided under Artwork Dimensions. If not mentioned ¼" to ½" should be incorporated.

Fonts

Please include all fonts (can be converted to curves or outlines if possible).

Layout

Assemble your file at a scale of ¼ size or Full size. For example if your output size is 24" x 36" you would assemble your computer file to be 6" x 9" at 600DPI.

File Transfer Submission

For our online submission we only receive high resolution PDF Files. Artwork dimensions for each product are available at the bottom of this page. Or on the product page.

For our non-online submission through CD's, DVD's and e-File Manager upload, the following media formats may be used:

Files are accepted in the following Adobe CS formats: InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop for Mac. Also QuarkXpress 3.3, 4.0, 5.0 PC & 3.3, 4.0, 5.0, 6.5, & 7.2 MAC (*PC files, see "Fonts/Text"). Send all documents and artwork including photos, logos and fonts. Fonts/Text Outline or convert all text to curves. Remember linked artwork may include fonts. If fonts are required, please include both Postscript and screen fonts. *PC files should always be rendered to outlines.

All files sent by e-File Manager should be compressed (.sit or .zip). Upload files here

Proof

If you require a 8.5" x 11" proof, it can be printed and delivered for $40.00. The proof can be of a cropped section or the complete layout. Please allow 2 - 3 days for proof completion and delivery. Proof is to verify file placement and color, not trimmed to crops, sticker for sign-off and must be sent back.

Production

Files are assumed ready to print and any errors will be the responsibility of the customer. If there are any doubts, please request a proof. Files that are not in print ready format and require additional design work, add $80/hr.

Please note that in the process of making digital prints, colors may deviate 5-10% and sizes 1-2%. Original disks will not be returned unless otherwise specified. Disks returned are at the customer's expense.