Listed below are the guidelines we ask you to follow for submitting graphics.
You may also download a PDF version of graphics file requirements (PDF).
Vector (outline/wireframe) artwork:
Vector artwork is the most desired as it produces the cleanest, “crisp” images.
Guidelines for using Adobe Illustrator
1. Scale your project within template (provided upon request)
Do not alter template proportions. Template will be scaled to 10% actual size.
Scale your project to equal: 1 inch = 10 inches
For example: for an 8 ft wide x 3 ft high skirt, the document dimensions should be set to
9.6 in wide by 3.6 in high.
If you are sending individual logos you do not need to scale images. Artwork will be placed in a template and a layout will be emailed in PDF format for your approval.
2. Set the Color Values
Document color mode must be set to CMYK.
Do not use RGB images!
RGB stands for Red, Green, Blue, the primary colors of visible light. A computer monitor can only “imitate” the colors of ink on paper. CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black, the ink colors used in 4-color process printing.
There is a color shift when converting from RGB to CMYK. If you are concerned about the color of your images, then we recommend that you order a proof for your job. DO NOT trust the colors on your monitor, unless you have a monitor that has been accurately calibrated.
Whenever possible use Pantone Solid colors to guarantee correct color output. Request a “printed proof” if you are concerned about color output.
Note: We cannot reproduce metallic color that has reflective properties. Metallics should be converted to CMYK or lower Pantone color numbers.
Example: color calls for “Silver” or Pantone 877. The closest Pantone substitution is 429. A gradient may be used to create a reflective light effect.
In order to get the richest blacks, make sure all the
black elements have a CMYK value of:
Standard Settings
C = 70%
M = 70%
Y = 70%
K = 100%
Select each black element and adjust the sliders to the above settings in the color palette.
Please note that various black objects may appear the same onscreen but may be vastly different when printed – always check their numerical values.
Make sure you check the stroke colors as well!
3. Outline your fonts
Convert all your type to outlines before submitting your order.
Choose Select-> All and go to Type -> Create Outlines to outline the fonts.
4. Preparing to Save
Be sure to embed all of your placed images. To do this,
Open the Windows->Links palette. Select each image
in the palette list, select the fly-out menu and pull
down to “Embed Image”.
5. Saving the File
Save your file to the native Adobe Illustrator format (.ai) or to PDF or EPS
Checklist
* File is in the correct scale of 1 inch = 10 inches if template is used.
* Colors must be in CMYK format or Pantone Solid coated. Make sure all black values are set.
* All placed images are embedded in document.
* All fonts are outlined.
Note: To avoid any delay and any additional setup cost, please make sure that all of the above guidelines are met.
Raster artwork (pixel, bitmap)(individual logos or full layout):
Tiff and Adobe Photoshop formats (.psd) are the most preferred if resolution is at least
72dpi at actual size. Bitmaps (.bmp), Jpegs and gif files are NOT accepted for final artwork and will be used for quoting purposes only.
Guidelines for Adobe Photoshop
1. Scale your document
Adjust your document to the correct size: 10% of actual size
1 inch = 10 inches
*For a 3 ft x 8 ft banner, document should be set up 3.6 in x 9.6 in.
If you intend an image to completely cover a print (full bleed), be sure that the image extends past the document edge. Please DO NOT end it at the trim – when sewn, the product will show white on the edges!
Also, do not place important elements like text, borders, or logos too close to the trim line. They may get trimmed off or sewn through.
2. Images
You are responsible for the quality of the images you are submitting. The source of your images is extremely important to obtain the highest quality results. Please be aware of the following:
LOW-END FLATBED SCANNERS: – Most flatbed scanners are not very good at preparing images for a 4-color process. The images may appear soft and fuzzy and the color will likely produce poorly. We recommend having the images professionally drum scanned at a service bureau and saved into CMYK.
LOW-END DIGITAL CAMERAS – Most consumer-level digital cameras cannot produce the resolution or the color needed for a 4-color process. They are typically designed for the internet, not print. There are, however, more expensive digital cameras and camera backs that approach print quality. The newer 3.3 or higher mega pixel cameras, for example, can sometimes produce good results in print. Find out about your cameras output in detail before deciding to use a digital camera. When sending an image from a digital camera do not send a jpeg. Instead use .raw, .nef or .tiff. You do not need to change from RGB to CMYK, a color proof will be required instead.
PREVIOUSLY PRINTED MATERIAL – Scanning previously printed material will likely produce a miore pattern – a visible, distracting texture. Whenever possible, start with original photographs or artwork, not previously printed material.
3. Color Information
Do not use RGB images!
RGB stands for Red, Green, Blue; the primary colors of visible light. A computer monitor can only “imitate” the colors of ink on paper. CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black, the ink colors used in 4-color process printing.
There is a color-shift when converting from RGB to CMYK. If you are concerned about the color of your images, then we recommend that you order a proof for your job. DO NOT trust the colors on your monitor, unless you have a monitor that has been accurately calibrated.
Using Black:
If we were only to print the Black values, the black that is printed would appear washed-out. In order to make visually stunning blacks it is necessary to add the other values into the mix.
Standard Black Setting:
C – 70
M – 70
Y – 70
K – 100
4. Resolution
Resolution in CMYK mode.
5ft. or less 150 PPI
5ft. or greater 72 PPI
To determine resolution at scaled size, determine the scale factor, multiply resolution X scaled factor.
– Example:
5 ft. X 7 ft. image (35 sq. ft.)
Resolution is 75 PPI at full scale
– Your file size will be 6X8.4
Your resolution for 1/10 Scale is 720 PPI (72 X10 = 720)
5. Design Tips
When there is text or vector art such as logos etc., we recommend you place your pixel file into vector based application (Illustrator, Corel Draw, etc.) and do your type and vector graphics. This will give you very sharp lines in the final output.
When creating a layout with several logos on a patterned background, maintain layers when saving.
6. Saving the File
We require .PSD, .PSB, .EPS or .TIFF files from Photoshop.
Here’s how:
Select File > Save as
1) Save as a TIFF
2) Set Byte Order to PC
3) DO NOT check LZW Compression
4) Click OK
Check List
– File is in correct scale 1 inch = 10 inches
– Colors must be in CMYK format. Correct color input from the color chart, including black.
– All text must be converted to outlines.
– When laying out the design, make sure graphics and text are not close to the edges.
Note: To avoid any delay and any additional setup cost, please make sure that all of the above guidelines are met.
* We accept files by e-mail, CD, DVD or files can be uploaded through our FTP site. Call or e-mail for directions.