Preparing files for print is easy. Here are a few helpful hints on what to do to make sure your files print as you intend they do.
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If the piece you design is only for one color, save the file as the PMS color. If it is more than one color, save it as "spot color" or "CMYK" depending on the job. NEVER save your files as "RGB."
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Please copy every font you use in a document and insert it into a folder you create called "Fonts". We need both the printer and screen version of each font, or if you are using true type fonts, just the true type version.
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Include all the graphic files you use in the document. Put them in a folder called "Images." Even if you have embedded them in the documents, it can sometimes be very helpful to have the original files.
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Please do not use GIF and low-resolution JPEG files in your documents. They may look fine on your monitor, but will not print well. High-resolution TIFF and EPS files are preferred and the resolution should be 300 dpi when possible.
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Don't apply formatting like bold or italic. Select the bold font as if it's a separate font.
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Please provide us with a hard copy of the piece to be printed. If there is more than one color, we would like color separations.
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If you are using Quark, please use the "Collect for Output" utility included with the program. This will help make sure you send us all the linked images.
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If you are using PageMaker 6.5 or higher, please use the Save for Service Provider plug-in to insure we have all the necessary components.
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If you are using InDesign, under the File menu, select Preflight. Click the Package button; this will collect everything you need.
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If you are able to create PDF files for us, be sure to embed all of your fonts and don't compress your images. Make certain your PMS colors will separate correctly and that you include bleed if needed.
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If your document bleeds (meaning an image or color prints all the way to the edge of the paper) set your file up a quarter of an inch past your cut lines or crop marks.
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Convert reader spreads to printer spreads if your job calls for them. Otherwise, a one up PDF is preferred.
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Your document may require a 5/8" gripper.
