File preparation for production
PDF files
are easiest to handle, speed up your turnaround, and lessen setup or preparation costs. We prefer a PDF file with embedded or outlined fonts.
For an item that is to be cut out:
- Dieline on separate layer: CUT. Please set up your file with artwork on its layer.
- Remember
to flatten ONLY ARTWORK LAYER before uploading.
- The dieline must be "vector" or have clickable lines.
- Double-check the file before sending it, looking for broken links to fonts or images.
For an item that needs folding:
- Dielines on separate layers: CUT and CREASE. Please set up your file with artwork on its layer.
- Remember
to flatten ONLY ARTWORK LAYER before uploading.
- The dieline must be "vector" or have clickable lines.
- Double-check the file before sending it, looking for broken links to fonts or images.
GENERAL CHECKLIST:
- The front and back can be in the same file as a multi-page document.
- Please keep all text at least 0.125" inside the CUT dieline.
- The standard bleed for prototype production is 0.125".
- Layer your file accordingly: ARTWORK, CUT, CREASE. Remember only to flatten the ARTWORK layer.
- Always start and finish in CMYK color mode.
- PMS colors: If you send a file with Pantone (spot) colors, the CMYK conversion will
change the Pantone color. Before sending your order, ensure all
Pantone colors have been converted to CMYK.
- Always convert your spot color to CMYK and flatten it before sending it to avoid a transparency issue.
- Artwork files should be at 300 dpi. If possible, please note in the Additional Information field if your image is low-quality and is for placement only.
- We recommend saving it as a PDF file. You may also send the file in the following types: JPG, JPEG, TIF, TIFF, and EPS.
All Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop-originated files (EPS) may need conversion before production, and this service will be added to your invoice—cost ranges from $12.50 - $75 per file. Our system runs on a PC platform - please save your file accordingly.