Vector graphic files are preferred
Whenever possible vector graphic files should be used. Bitmap images have resolution requirements for scalability whereas a vector image can be made as large as necessary without losing print quality.
Sending Bitmaps/Photos for digital printing
When sending Bitmaps 300dpi should be considered a minimum as image quality degrades when increasing scale. A general rule is that for every 100% increase in size resolution is cut in half (a 50 X 50 image at 300dpi will become 150dpi when size is increased to 100 X 100). Properly scaled images with enough resolution will be between 100 and 300 dpi for proper resolution at the printer. If print large format bear in mind the artwork should not drop below 100dpi at FULL SIZE in order to produce a good quality print. For exhibition or retail graphics this will need to be much higher at 300dpi
Size your image proportionate to the final production size
For vector images the scale doesn’t matter, only the proportions. However, when sending a bitmap file, 20% of the final production size at 300dpi is the recommended minimum size and scale, more never hurts.
Specify all PMS colours
The Pantone Matching System provides a reference colour to target PMS colours. However not all Pantone colours are reproducible using CMYK digital print. All colour specifications will be matched to the closest 4 colour process. Orders received without colour specifications will be produced using the CMYK values contained in the digital file. Colour samples can be requested however are chargeable.
Send layout colour copy of artwork
All artwork must be accompanied by a colour hard copy with PMS colours specified. If PMS numbers are not available please send an approved printed output to match to e.g. brochure, previously printed piece, etc Digital Printers cannot print fluorescent or metallic colours. Colours cannot be taken from a computer screen.
Digital Printing Solid blacks
We require that all black spot colours be built blacks (see breakdown). 70C,70M,70Y,100K. This will ensure a solid, rich black every time.
Images from the web generally will not be high enough resolution
Artwork requirements for web use is far more forgiving than with production. Web sites normally contain low resolution (72dpi) bitmap images that cannot be scaled up efficiently.
When sending files include the fonts
When sending fonts ALWAYS CONVERT TEXT TO CURVES. This eliminates all font issues such as defaulting or drop-outs. Please do not send bitmap text as this eliminates edit capabilities.
Acceptable applications
We have both MAC and PC capabilities though MAC is the preferred.
File Formats
- Illustrator (.ai)
- Encapsulated Postscript (.eps)
- TIFF (.tiff)
- JPEG (.jpg)
- PDF (.pdf) Please make sure fonts are embedded
Always include all support files
When placing logos, images or linking files to a layout, always include those individual files in their native format eg (Photoshop) or in an approved format.
E-mailing artwork
E-mail’s will be accepted. Vector files and small picture files can be e-mailed as the files are small. Larger files, over 10MB will need to sent via FTP site like WeTransfer or just sent a memory stick. Any artwork which is emailed needs to be accompanied by a final artwork PDF layout, to confirm that the file was received correctly. An approved Compression Utility, could be used to reduce file size and reduce the risk of file corruption. Please, no self-extracting files.
For more information on how to prepare artwork for Digital Printing please contact us.