Image Resolution

Resolution also known as DPI (dots per inch) or PPI (pixels per inch) can be described as the number of dots that fit horizontally and vertically into one inch. The higher the DPI, the sharper more detailed the resulting printed image. Image resolution is directly and inversely proportional to an image’s physical size. When you increase the resolution of an image, reduce its size. When you enlarge an image, lower the resolution. If your file is not 300 DPI, you cannot simply increase a low resolution image to a higher one by increasing the DPI in your imaging program. The following minimum and maximum specs should be followed for ideal resolution.

 

Minimum Specs (Best)

Build your file(s) 25% of final output size at 300 dpi in CMYK color space.

Example: 24 x 36 poster should be set up as 6 x 9 at 300 dpi.

 

Maximum Specs (Better)

Build your file(s) at 100% of final output size at 300 dpi in CMYK color space.

Example: 24 x 36 poster should be set up as 24 x 36 at 300 dpi.

 

File Formats

We can accept any of the following file types in any of the industry-standard page layout and design programs : TIF, JPG, PSD, AI, EPS, INDD and PDF. PDF is our preferred file type (See "Creating Optimal PDF Files" below). Corel Draw (please export files to Illustrator with curves). We discourage the printing of any Power Point slides, Word documents, and website images. These produce less than satisfactory results in most cases.

 

Creating Optimal PDF Files

PDF Files are complex and issues can appear during printing that are not visible in digital format. To help you avoid potential issues we have put together a few guidelines for creating a PDF file that is compatible with large format printing:

 

•  If your graphics application has presets for saving PDF file in PDF/X format, choose PDF/X-4. If not, save files as PDF version 1.6.

•  Embed your images. TIFF files are recommended. Avoid using lossy formats such as GIF or JPG whenever possible.

•  Use high-resolution images (image resolution should be greater than 150 dpi, but no higher than 600 dpi).

•  Avoid embedding 16-bit images. Convert 16-bit images to 8-bit before adding them.

•  If your design application allows you to define a bleed area, the bleed box must be larger than the art box.

•  Embed all color profiles in your PDF file.

•  Embed all fonts in your PDF file.

•  Do not embed non-printable items such as movies and audio.

•  Place annotations outside the art box or remove them before saving.

•  Do not use encryption when saving your PDF file.

 

Color Specs

We are calibrated to industry standards in all of our processes. Color mode must be in CMYK to be a print ready file. If file(s) are submitted using any other color mode, such as RGB or Pantone, the file(s) will be converted to CMYK during preflighting. Conversion from one color standard to another may result in color shifts. Corresponding Pantone colors must be named properly and consistent if matching is essential. If you do not know the Pantone color, give us a CMYK percentage breakdown of the colors to match.

 

Fonts and Placed Graphics

All fonts and elements from applications other than the file sent must be provided as separate files with acceptable resolution (see above). Converting your fonts to outlines and embedding your images before submitting can greatly reduce the need for these. Also submitting a high resolution PDF file will also eliminate the need for these to be submitted separately.

 

Document Size and Bleeds

Extend all images and elements a minimum of 1/8" onto the pasteboard in order to provide enough image area for trimming and cutting with the exception of banners. For banners add two inches (2.0") to the length and width to allow for hemming and cutting. (Ex. A 36" x 72" banner with full bleed, the image size should be submitted at 38” x 74”. Please call us when your banner application will need rope or pole pockets to discuss your layout options and requirements.

 

Clean Up Files

Cleaning up your file(s) can prevent errors in output. Prior to submitting your file(s), take time to insure that unnecessary items are removed from your file(s). This includes: Items left on the pasteboard, pages not required for output, unused colors, and unused styles and hidden raster effects.

 

Proof and Proofreading

Either a paper print of the ordered file(s), JPG or PDF must be included to ensure the artwork has been received in full. Please spell-check your document and review all other information carefully before submitting your file(s) to us.