When preparing press-ready digital files, what should I keep in mind?

Make sure you use the right size, bleed, safe area, color standard, and resolution. If your file has more than one page you have to check for correct orientation. Please see the File Preparation Tips for more information and use a Product Template to help you set up your file.

What is bleed?

Bleed means that the image extends beyond the trim line in order to ensure that no space near the edge remains unprinted and no undesired white border appears. Please build your press-ready digital files by adding 0.05 inches on each side for business cards, postcards, and rackcards, and 0.0625 inches for all other products. We automatically trim 0.05″ or 0.0625″ off each edge, which will result in the desired trim size. Simply add 0.1″ x 0.1” or 0.125″ x 0.125″ to the overall dimension of your digital layout. Example: A 5″ x 7″ postcard would have a file size of 5.1″ x 7.1″ and a 8.5″ x 11″ flyer would have a file size of 8.625″ x 11.125″. Please use a Product Template to help you set up your file.

What is safe area?

The safe area is a 0.125” margin from the trim line that should not contain important text or image to ensure it is not cut off or appears too close to the edge. Please see the File Preparation Tips for more information and use a Product Template to help you set up your file.

What is CMYK?

CMYK stands for Cyan, Magento, Yellow, and Key (Black). This is the industry standard process colors used in full-color offset printing. The combination of these four colors can produce a wide spectrum of colors. Cyan, Magenta, and Yellow combine to create the color, while Black is used to change the shade of the color.

What is RGB?

RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue. These are most commonly used with web design, television screens and computer monitors but are not used in offset printing. RGB files should be converted to CMYK prior to uploading. Colors may need to be adjusted after the conversion and may not appear correct on your monitor.

What resolution should my image have?

Your image should have a resolution of at least 350 dpi.

How do I know if your graphics department will set up two-sided artwork correctly?

Make sure you prepare and upload your files correctly. Please refer to our File Preparation Tips for information on how to set up your two-sided artwork.

What types of files do you accept?

You are required to submit your files in one of the following formats: PDF, JPG, TIF/TIFF, EPS.

Do you have any downloadable templates?

Yes. Please see our Product Templates page .

Why should I convert my text to outlines?

Converting your text to outlines is the most effective way to ensure your typefaces look exactly as you designed them. Once text has been converted to outlines, it can no longer be typeset like standard text layers, so be sure to save your source files accordingly.