ARTWORK SPECS:
In order to maintain competitive pricing and quick turn around times, we need to outline certain responsibilities for our customers with regard to file preparation. Orders received varying from these specifications are subject to delays and/or additional charges to put them into conforming condition. We will prep of fix the files you send us at a rate of $45.00 per hour. If additional fees to fix your file are required, we will contact you in advance for your approval.
Accepted file formats:
- We use Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop for all file prep work. You may send us any type of file compatible with either program - however Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop are preferred.
Raster Images:
- Images should be flattened and sent as .tif files without any compression (.jpg images will work, but will usually be compressed more resulting in poor image quality). For stand size banners, files should be set at full size and 75-100 ppi. This should produce a file around 50mb. Generally files around 50mb are over kill and only slow down the process. If you create your file at scale, increase the resolution accordingly to 150-200 ppi. For smaller, hi-res prints, you can increase the resolution to 300 ppi. Keep in mind that color matching with Raster images is usually more difficult and may be more expensive.
Vector Images:
- Vector based images are preferred when possible because of their quality, file size, and more accurate colors. Files should be sent as .ai or .eps with ALL FONTS CONVERTED TO OUTLINES. (Most of the problems we see come from missing fonts) If you are using a program other than Illustrator, you should be able to export your file as an .eps with fonts converted to outline, paths, or curves.
File Preparation:
- All files should be saved in CMYK. Files sent in RGB can produce unexpected results.
Files must be sized or scaled correctly. For scaled-down files, always include enlarging instructions (such as “enlarge 200%”). Always make the file (or the artboard) the size of the banner or add a thin box showing the actual banner size. DO NOT send just a logo and ask us to “enlarge it to fit the banner”. You are responsible for sizing the artwork to fit the banner.
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You don’t need to include any bleed or extra space for finishing your file .We will add extra space for hems or pole pockets.
Sending your files:
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Small files (under 5mb) can be e-mailed. You may also deliver or mail your files on a disc. We prefer you send files on a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM Please let us know if you want your disk back and make sure it is clearly labeled. We generally won’t return your CD’s and DVD’s unless specified.
Order Details:
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Please be sure to include all of the details of your order, including media (vinyl, decal, banner, etc..), quantity, size, finishing (hems, grommets, etc.) and any other special instructions (color matching, deadlines, etc.).
Proofs:
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We suggest sending a proof with your file, but we don’t require it. Proofs allow us to verify that files open and print correctly. Proofs can be printed copies or a flattened .jpg, .fig, .tif, or .pdf file. If you choose to send a proof, you will be responsible for any file problems that could have been caught had a proof been sent.
Color & Color Matching:
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Unless otherwise stated, colors will be printed AS IS, without any alteration on our part. Remember that the printed colors and the colors seen on the monitor will usually be a little (or in some cases, a lot) different , so you may get unexpected results. You will be responsible for problems due to color errors if you don’t request color matching.
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For approximate color matching there is no extra charge. Examples of approximate color matching are: “It just needs to be a dark red” or “The blue needs to be close to PMS 286.” We will make sure the colors are close, but there are no guarantees or refunds.
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Exact color matching fees normally start at $30.00 and are billed at an hourly rate of $45.00. For exact color matching, you must provide PMS numbers or a physical color swatch. You may also be required to approve an actual printed proof before we complete your job, so plan on a few extra days for jobs with color matching. Please contact us for details and prices. We can usually quote you a color matching price in advance.
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