Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What kind of files can I upload?

    Standard Orders

    PDF, EPS, AI, PSD, TIF, TIFF, JPEG, JPG
    PDF is highly recommended.

    We prefer that you send PDF and EPS files with outlined fonts. These files are easier to handle and will likely speed up your turn-around. Remember to remove all crop marks and flatten your files before uploading.

    Large Format Orders

    PDF, EPS, AI, PSD, TIF, TIFF, JPEG, JPG
    PDF is highly recommended.

    We prefer that you send PDF files with outlined fonts. These files are easier to handle and will likely speed up your turn-around. Remember to remove all crop marks and flatten your files before uploading.

  • What resolution should my files be?

    Most files will require 300 dpi resolution for all elements within artwork. Large format prints have special resolution and scaling options see the LARGE FORMAT FAQ for details.

  • Can I submit a front and back in the same file?

    No. Our systems are specifically set up to process one side at a time, and this requires that each side of a job must be on a separate file.

    Not separating files will cause delays and you might have to send the files again. Remember to separate the pages of your .pdf files as well.

  • What color mode should my files be?

    If you send us an RGB file, there is a chance that a color shift may occur and you may not be satisfied with your job.

    You should always start and finish your designs in CMYK color mode.

  • How can I avoid transparency issues?

    Never use shadows, glows, or any other transparency (image or otherwise) on top of a spot color. Always convert your spot color to CMYK and flatten before sending.

  • How should I set up my bleed and crop marks?

    Bleed must extend further than the cut line. Please keep all text and anything you do not want cutoff at least .125″ away from the cut line.

    Do not include crop marks in the files you submit to us. 

    Often times, your artwork itself is set-up correctly – however, when you save as PDF – your PDF file will only output the size you have in your document set-up. To ensure your bleed is always acknowledged, you must include the bleed on your artboard in addition to the actual size of your finished size desired. i.e. If you order a 24″ x 18″ PVC sign, your artwork with bleed (.5″ on all sides) and document set-up both should actually be 25″ x 19″.

    Banners: If ordering hems, leave a 2-inch safe zone on all sides. Expect to lose between 1/8 inch to 2 inches per side with banners.

    Flags: Leave a 2-inch safe zone on all sides and the pole pocket area.

    BLEED REQUIREMENTS

    Product

    Bleed (All Sides)

    Business Cards
    Marketing Products

    0.125 inches

    Booklets
    Presentation Folders

    0.25 inches

    Coroplast
    PVC
    Foamcore
    Car Magnets
    Banner Stands
    Large Posters
    Polyester Banners
    Flags

    .5 inches

    Loose Banners
    Rolled Canvas
    Tote Bags

    No Bleed

    Mounted Canvas

    2 inches 

     

  • What is rich black and how can I get it?

    Rich black is an ink mixture of solid black, 100% K, with additional CMY ink values. This results in a darker tone than black ink alone. If you print black alone as 100% K, the resulting black may not be as dark as you might like

    We recommend using
    C 60 M 40 Y 40 K 100
    This will give you a deep, dark, rich black.

    Want to learn more? We’ve written a great article on this subject. 

  • What is the standard round corner radius?

    We offer 1/4″ and 1/8″ radius round corners on some products.

  • What is overprint, and how can it ruin my file?

    Overprint is used to intentionally overlap inks for a number of reasons, overprint can cause unexpected results. We suggest that you turn all overprint objects off before submitting your files.

    The colors from a top layer set to overprint might mix with the colors from the background. Unexpected results may occur if you have accidentally set certain objects to overprint. Always check logos and other artwork before submitting.

  • How can I make sure my blues do not come out purple?

    When using a blue in your design, always make sure to leave at least a 30% difference in your Cyan and Magenta values.

    Blue is close to purple in the CMYK spectrum. Remember, use a low amount of magenta whenever using high amounts of cyan to avoid purple.

    EXAMPLE: C-100 M-70 Y-0 K-0

  • How should I set up my file for spot gloss and foil?

    When creating a job with a mask file, i.e., Spot UV or Foil, you must include a mask template file along with the regular full-color file. The mask template file is used to show where the UV or Foil will be placed.

    Use 100% K to indicate where you would like the UV. White will indicate no UV.