Send Us Files + Artwork Specifications
Everything you need to send us artwork that is ready for print, mail or production.
Preferred & Accepted File Formats
Whenever possible, please send a print-ready PDF. Native design files are also welcome when editing or production preparation is needed.
Preferred. High-quality or print-ready PDF with fonts embedded and bleed included.
ILLUSTRATOR
Include linked images and fonts, or convert fonts to outlines when appropriate.
INDESIGN
Please package the file so all linked graphics and fonts are included.
PHOTOSHOP
Build at final size whenever possible with images at approximately 300 dpi.
EPS
Vector artwork is preferred for logos and line art. Outline fonts when needed.
TIFF / JPG
Use high-resolution images at final size. Approximately 300 dpi is recommended for most print projects.
Before You Send Your Artwork
A few simple things can prevent production delays:
- Send only the files needed for the current project
- Include your company or organization name and project/order information
- Package native design files with all fonts and linked graphics
- Use high-resolution images at the final printed size
- Whenever possible, include a PDF reference showing how the finished artwork should look
Mailing Artwork
Direct mail pieces have specific addressing, clear-zone, fold, tabbing and postal requirements that can vary by finished size and mail class.
If we are mailing your project, contact us before finalizing artwork whenever you are unsure about the addressing area or postal layout. We can help make sure the piece is designed to mail correctly before it reaches production.
Trim Size, Bleed & Safe Area
Build artwork at the final finished size. When images or color extend to the edge, include .125" bleed on all sides. An 8.5" x 5.5" finished piece with bleed should be 8.75" x 5.75".
Keep important text, logos and critical information at least .25" inside the final trim edge unless your project has different production requirements.
Color & Black Ink
Commercial printing is generally produced using CMYK process color, spot color or a combination depending on the project. Monitor and office-printer color will not exactly match a commercially printed piece, and some variation is normal across stocks, coatings and production methods.
For large areas of solid black, a rich black such as C40 M30 Y20 K100 can create a deeper appearance. Small black type and fine lines should generally remain 100% K black for sharper registration.
If color is especially important, let us know before production so we can discuss appropriate proofing or color-matching options.
Client-Supplied Artwork & File Preparation
We are happy to work with client-supplied artwork whether it arrives completely print-ready or needs a little help.
Files requiring resizing, rebuilding, font or image replacement, color correction, bleed creation, layout adjustments, conversion, repair, prepress preparation or other production work may be subject to artwork or production charges based on the work required.
If you are unsure whether your file is ready, send it over and our team will let you know what is needed before the job moves forward.
Custom Sizes, Finishing & Questions
We produce standard and custom sizes, folds, die-cuts, bindings, coatings and specialty formats, so there is no need to design around only a handful of preset sizes. If your piece has an unusual size, construction or finishing requirement, talk with us early so we can confirm the best production setup.
Questions about artwork, mailing requirements, color, finishing or whether an idea can be produced? Contact our team. We would much rather solve the question before production than discover a problem afterward.