Regardless of the method used for sending us your files, be sure to include documentation that includes:

• your name, company, address and phone number,
• job name,
• job number,
• individual file names,
• the application name and version used to create the files,
• the final page count,
• the number and names for any PMS or spot colors, and
• your finished page size.

Here are some guidelines for preparing your files for printing.

• Images should be 300 dpi (dots per inch) at the final size in the layout.
• Text should be 400 dpi at the final size in the layout.
• Use .TIFF or .EPS file formats to achieve the best color quality and sharpness of  image. Other file formats tend to remove some of the original images. Images originally taken from a digital camera usually appear in .JPEG.
• Use an .EPS file format for photographs.
• Avoid using images from the Internet or websites which usually appear in .GIF, .JPEG or .PNG file formats at a low dpi where color and resolution are removed from these images to allow for rapid transfer.
• Make sure all photos are set in the proper mode (CMYK).
• Check that your files are linked, not embedded, and that you send all your layout, image and font files (both screen and printer fonts).

Creating a page that has a full bleed (ink all the way to the edge of the sheet) requires that the page be printed on a larger size sheet of paper.  To set up your file to accommodate a bleed, be sure to extend the bleed area 1/8” beyond all four edges of the page.  This allows plenty of room for trimming and eliminates any of the paper showing at the edge.  Please refer to each product estimate page to determine if bleeds are allowed on the type of project you are printing.

• On products where bleeds are not allowed, make sure to leave an area around all four sides where there is no copy within 1/4” of the edges.
• If your document requires perforations or folds, please indicate them in the bleed area of your artwork with a small tick mark.
• Be sure to include both screen and printer fonts among the files you send us, including any fonts used in linked graphics.
• Be careful when using colored text.  The smallest misalignment on the press can cause CMYK inks to not align perfectly in small text (10 point or smaller) or in white text on a colored or black background (knock-out copy).  This misalignment can make small text look blurry.  If you need to use small colored text, it is best to keep it to one of the true CMYK colors.  Black is the preferred choice.  Text larger than 10 points will print clear and sharp with any color you choose.
• If your design calls for screened text, especially for small text, avoid using light screens. Instead, try to make screened values at least 60% and try to make at least one of the inks 100% (preferably cyan or magenta).
• When using large areas of black coverage, please set up your files with these values:  60% cyan, 40% magenta, 40% yellow and 100% black.  Small text and rules should be left at 100% black.