What file types do you accept for print jobs?
We prefer that you submit PDF files. We also accept these file types: JPG, JPEG, PSD, TIF, TIFF, EPS, AI and PNG. If you can send your PDF or EPS file with outlined fonts (see below), it will be easier for us to handle. Please add crop marks and flatten your files before sending.
What color mode should my files be?
You should always start and finish your designs in CMYK color mode. If you send us an RGB file, a color shift might occur.
Why should I convert fonts to outlines?
It is important to convert your fonts to outlines so the text in your artwork prints correctly.
If your font is not installed on a computer that opens your file, the computer will substitute a generic font for your original font. This completely changes the way your font looks and prints.
However, if your font has been converted to outlines, the computer will read the words as an image rather than text. When your piece is printed, the font will appear as you intended.
How to do it: To convert fonts to outlines, change the font in your file from text to an object.
What is raster artwork?
Raster art can also be called a bitmap file because it is based on pixel data. When you are viewing a raster file at a low percentage size, the image blends and looks normal. But when you zoom in or enlarge the image, small squares of data called pixels become apparent.
Pros: Raster files look smooth at a good resolution. Raster computer art can be made to look lifelike.
Cons: A raster file is usually larger than a vector graphics image file. A raster file is usually difficult to modify without losing information, although there are software tools that can convert a raster file into a vector file for refinement and changes.
Examples of raster image file types are: BMP, TIFF, GIF and JPEG.
What is vector artwork?
Vector art defines a graphic by using mathematical algorithms, which allow the image to be scaled or modified without any loss of image quality or resolution.
When your artwork or logo is in a vectored format (either AI or EPS), it allows us to increase or decrease the size of the graphic while retaining the clarity of the original image. We prefer vector images for logos and line art because they can be converted to a wide range of sizes without distorting the image.
Vector files are difficult to edit because they rely on shapes and curves instead of tiny pixels that blend together. However, they are capable of supporting technology such as meshes, and effects such as drop shadows and glow.
Can you convert a raster file to a vector file and vice versa?
Yes! We use specialized software that can convert any image to a vector file. The new file is saved in EPS format and can be opened in any vector program. On the flip side, we can convert any vector image to a raster file to add it to your document or email.
What is the best resolution for printing?
The best resolution for printing is 300 dpi (dots per inch) or above.
Images on the web are mostly 72 dpi, and will come out fuzzy or blurry when printed. To make sure your print job has the best possible quality, please submit images at or above 300 dpi.
How do I know if I am scanning at the right resolution?
If you are using a typical home or office scanner, your scanner’s software will allow you to control the resolution. In the scanner software, preset your resolution to 300 dpi or above to create print-ready images. The software will probably also give you a range of options to control color and other characteristics of your scan.
For reference, a 300 dpi scan is good enough to produce excellent photo prints up to 8×10 inches in size.
What are templates and how do I use them?
A template is any document that is used as a guide for designing new documents, showing which elements should be included and where.
You can make templates as simple or as complicated as you wish. Some templates come with images or text already laid out in the document. Others are basic straight-line stencils, or multipage documents that you can fill with your own text and pictures.
Designed to be personalized and printed, templates can save you time!
Can you convert a PDF file to a Word document?
Yes! If you want to make changes to a PDF file but do not have Adobe Acrobat Pro software, we can convert your PDF into a Word document (DOC, DOCX) for easy editing.
