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Artwork Guidelines

Below are our standards on the type of files and formats we accept. This outline should be followed to ensure order accuracy and a timely result in receiving the final product. Submitting files other than the preferred formats may result in extra fees due to the time required to get the artwork print ready.

Preferred File Formats

Vectorized files which are made up of lines and paths are our favorite. They provide the sharpest results through all our printing processes and the most compatible with our pre-press software.

  • .PDF
  • .SVG
  • .EPS
  • .IDML
Vector Image Example

Unpreferred File Formats

Rasterized images or bitmap images are intended for web use, in emails, etc. The only print processes where these would be acceptable would be digital four-color printing that requires no edits. If one of these filetypes is your only option available, please ensure the resolution is 300PPI. The larger the image, the more accurate it can be converted to a usable format if necessary. Please note additional charges may apply for converting unusable artwork.

  • .JPEG
  • .PNG
  • .BMP
  • .GIF
  • .DOC
Raster Image Example

Document Colors

Spot colors should be set to the corresponding PANTONE™ swatch.

Black ink should be set to use the key plate only, which is:

C=0, M=0, Y=0, K=100

The “Registration” black swatch should only be applied to tick marks and/or registration marks.

Document Bleeds

Bleed refers to any background color, image, or design element that extends all the way to the edge of a printed piece. Because printing and trimming can shift slightly during production, these elements must extend beyond the final trim size to prevent unwanted white edges.

All bleed elements should extend at least 1/8 inch (0.125″) past the document’s trim edge on all sides. This extra area will be trimmed off after printing, ensuring your design reaches the edge cleanly and consistently.

Document print bleeds example

Document Color Type

All print ready files must be created in CMYK color mode, not RGB.

CMYK is intended for print, whereas RGB is intended for display only (such as web images).

Fonts

All fonts should be outlined and converted into vector artwork before submission.

Outlining fonts converts text into shapes rather than editable type, ensuring the design displays and prints exactly as intended. This prevents issues caused by missing fonts or wrong font substitutions.

Once fonts are outlined, they can no longer be edited as text, so be sure to proofread carefully and keep an editable copy of your file before converting.

Outlined Font Example

Copyright

By submitting artwork, photographs, or any file to us, you have acknowledged you have already obtained the proper permission from the authors, publishers or owners to use the file in print production.

If you still have any questions related to submitting artwork, please contact us.