FILE FORMATS:
We accept the following image file formats: TIF, TIFF, JPG, EPS, PNG, PSD, InDesign, AI, and PDF. We do not accept Publisher files (.pub)–please save them as PDFs.
RESOLUTION:
All submitted image files must have a minimum of 300 dpi (dot per inch) resolution. Images intended for printing need to be created at 300 dpi, otherwise image quality will drop substantially (see examples below). The images designed for the web only should be done at a lower screen resolution (72 dpi).
|
|
|
This means that if you would like an 11×17″ poster, you need to create it in Photoshop at 11×17″ and 300 dpi.
If using Publisher, you still need to set the page size to 11×17″ (or Tabloid). After the file is created, save it as a high-resolution PDF.
BLEED:
What’s a bleed?
It’s the portion of the card that will be trimmed off when cut to the final size. The purpose of a bleed is to continue color, image, or design to the edge of the card.
Please, build your press-ready digital files by leaving 0 .25″ (1/4 inch) “cutting tolerance” fields at all 4 edges to prevent parts of the design from getting cut due to possible paper shifting.
CROP MARKS:
Crop Marks (lines indicating where the paper should be cut to produce the correct size) are helpful, especially when we do a lot of cutting. Please build your press-ready digital files by adding crop marks.
SAFE ZONE:
All critical elements (text, images, logos, etc.) must be kept at least 0.125″ inside the edge. Anything left close to edge may be cut off during trimming.
BORDERS:
Please allow 1/16″ cutting tolerance around your card. We recommend no borders– due to shifting in the cutting process, borders may appear uneven.
FONTS:
a. Fonts must be embedded in PDF files.
b. Fonts must be outlined or converted to paths or curves in EPS files.
c. Some fonts have copyright restrictions and will not embed in PDF files.
d. Quark Express: Fonts and images must be included with all files submitted (Mac only).