Preparing Your Files for Upload
As a general rule you should follow these basic guidelines when submitting any files for printing. These rules are the same no matter what application you are using or what computer platform that you use. We also go into these in greater detail, simply follow the links for an in-depth explanation.You may also download and print out a copy of our Digital File Checklist to help you prepare your files for upload.
When Submitting Files You Should Always . . .
- Make sure the document size matches the trim size of the finished piece.
- Allow 1/8" (.125") bleed for any pictures, graphics, text, or any other objects which either touch or "bleed" or run off of the edge of the page.
- Work in CMYK not RGB color.
- All images and graphics should be linked, not embedded.
- Supply copies of all placed pictures and graphics files.
- For best results use only CMYK TIFF (LZW Compression = Off), EPS (Set DCS = Off), or Photoshop PSD image files.
- For best results all pictures should be approximately 300 PPI (pixels per inch) resolutions as placed in your document. For more information please see our section on image resolution.
- Enable Snap to Guides in your applications and be very careful to ensure that all images are accurately placed. Pay special attention to the centers between any facing pages.
- Resolve all ink color name conflicts and remove any unused or duplicate colors. When working with spot color it is very important that care be taken when because color names must match exactly. If your job is to be four-color process only then make certain that your colors are defined as process in both your page layout program and in any placed EPS files.
- Please include all screen and printer fonts (subject to certain licensing restrictions) used in your document as well as any fonts that may be used in any placed graphics. Postscript, OpenType and TrueType fonts only may be used. Please see our pages devoted to collecting digital files and managing your Windows or Macintosh fonts.
For more detailed help please see Submitting Digital Files, Common File Pitfalls, and Submitting PDFs in our Help section. You will find everything that you might need to help you successfully complete your project.