How To Save Time & Money Creating Files For Color Printing

Being an online printing service we get a lot of customer files with production errors that slow down the job and can cost more money if the printing service has to fix it for you. Here are some tips and a checklist on how to create your own files.

File Submission Checklist:
Before uploading your files, make sure you check this list:

• RESOLUTION
All images must be 300 DPI to print the highest detail. Any DPI lower than 300 will diminish the printing quality. You cannot use images copied from your monitor, as they are only 72 DPI.

• CMYK
All files must be converted from RGB to CYMK (process colors). Do not use any other color system or the color will not be accurate to the image.

• BLEED
If you want to extend printing to the edges of the paper (bleed), be sure to extend a 1/8-inch (.125) all around. This will make sure you get a perfect edge.

• TRIM AREA
All borders that include text or images should be within 1/4 inch (.25) from the edge of the trim. Free templates are available with most online printing services.

• CROPMARKS
Cropmarks are very important if you are using spot UV coating or any place a mask is needed. They give the exact positioning of the mask or layer.

• RICH BLACK
Black backgrounds should have percentages of 60% cyan, 40% magenta, 40% yellow and 100%. Black. Blacks on your screen will look the same but when it prints, it will be dramatically different. Make sure type is only at 100% black especially fonts under 28pt. for readability.

• FONTS
High resolution PDF are preferred and it will speed up processing. Fonts should be embedded to avoid problems.

• SPOT UV or Foil masks
Jobs with spot UV coating or foil need an additional 100% grayscale black mask that specifies the position of the UV or foil positioning.

If you follow the above 8 steps, your files will pass the preflight test that will speed up the process and save a lot of time & money.