Prepare a File

Please use the following guidelines for preparing a file for print:

Bleeds   We need 1/8" of art beyond the final trim size all around. Since this bleed area will be trimmed off during the cutting process, there should be no text or other important information in the bleed area. The cutting process for printed materials has a mechanical tolerance of about .0625 or 1/16". We recommend all text and graphics stay inside the final paper trim edge by about 1/4". This ensures a more professional appearance and eliminates any risk of type or images being accidentally cut off during trimming.

Resolution   Resolution—also known as "dpi" (dots per inch)—can be described as the number of dots that fit within one inch of measure. All graphics and photographs should be a minimum of 300 dpi for best detail and a sharp image.

Color Mode   All graphics and elements should be in CMYK, not RGB.

Blacks   If you want an area of solid black within a document, 100% black (K) will not result in a solid, saturated black on paper. You should use "rich black," which is made by mixing the other colors (CMY) with K to make a darker, deeper black. To create rich black, CMYK values must be set to 60% cyan (C), 40% magenta (M), 0% yellow (Y), and 100% black (K).

File Format   We encourage you to submit your file in a PDF format. This way, all graphics and fonts are embedded in the file. If you submit a native file instead, you will also need to submit all links and fonts.

Send a Sample   It is always useful to have a mockup to serve as a guide for printing. Please e-mail a PDF to serve as a guide.