Graphic Specs

General Guidelines for Graphic Ready to Print Digital Artwork

To help you prepare your file for printing, please review the following guidelines that should be followed 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, they 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.

Colour

We recommend all colours be defined in CMYK format, but we will accept RGB. All Pantone-coated colour numbers should be supplied in written form for reference or left as they are. If a colour comp cannot 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 4-colour black, which is created using the following values: 25% cyan, 25% magenta, 25% yellow and 100% black.

Expand MediaFabric, FlagStand and FlagStand XL Black must be defined as 4-colour 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. (300 DPI @ 50% or 600 DPI @ 25%). As 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, a ¼" to ½" bleed 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 600 DPI.

File Transfer Submission

We only receive high-resolution PDF Files through our online submission. Artwork dimensions for each product are available at the bottom of this page, or on the product page.

For our non-online submission through CDs, DVDs and e-File Manager upload, the following media formats may be used:

Adobe CS format - InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop for MAC QuarkXpress 3.3, 4.0, 5.0 PC & 3.3, 4.0, 5.0, 6.5, & 7.2 for 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. Upload files here

Proof

If you require an 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. Proofs are to verify file placement and colour, not trimmed to crops. Proofs must be signed off and 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. For 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, colours 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.