The following is a list of file formats that we do not accept: Publisher, FlexiSign, Quark, CAD, or Word documents. If you only have one of these types, we may or may not be able to use it and art editing fees will likely apply
Raster files should be 72ppi – 200ppi at full size
Technical Reference for Terminology
DPI = Dots per inch – units used to measure the resolution of a printer
LPI = Lines per inch – The offset printing ‘lines’ or dots per inch in a halftone or line screen
PPI = Pixels per inch – the number of pixels per inch in screen/scanner file terms
We refer to PPI
Pantone Matching System If a Pantone Matching System (PMS) number is provided, most colors can be represented fairly close. However, some PMS colors are out of gamut for digital CMYK printing. Certain colors are impossible to represent exactly, however most colors can be represented to less than a 6.0 dE2000. If you are unfamiliar with dE2000, Click For More Information.
Bleed In order to ensure ink coverage is edge to edge on your print, we ask that you send your files with bleed. Bleed is extra color that extends beyond the final size of your print. For instance, if a 24” x 36” banner needs 2” of bleed, your file would be 28” x 40”. If you are uncertain about bleed in your files: Contact Prepress 866-917-7938 and ask for bleed specifications. We are always glad to help.
Outline Fonts When you add text to your file it is important that you “Outline” the text (sometimes called “Convert to Curves”) before you send it to be printed. If the text isn’t outlined, font substitution may occur when we open the file. Sending fonts with your files is acceptable, but not ideal, there are many variations of a single font , and unless the font is exactly the same font in the document, we may not be able to apply the font correctly.
Embed Links When you place an image into a program like Illustrator or InDesign, that image is not stored in the file itself. Instead, the program “links” to the location where the image is stored on your computer. When you save the document, the image is not being saved with it. When you submit files to be printed, you must “Embed” the linked images. The procedure varies from program to program
Download Pole Pocket PDFExtra material at the edge of the print is turned over and stitched or welded depending on the specifications of the project. It is important that nothing crucial (like text and logos) falls in the pocket area. To accomplish this, ask your salesperson what size pockets your order will have and move all important elements that distance away from the edge. Think of pockets like “margins”. For instance, if a 24” x 48” banner has 2” pockets on all sides, all important information must fit within 20” x 44”. Background images and non-essential design elements may go into the pocket area. Please note that pockets do not change the finished size of the print. Adding 2” of bleed will not make the art correct.
Cut Paths If your project is cut to shape, we ask that you supply us with a cut path. A cut path is a vector shape that allows our cutter to read and match up with registration marks. A simple one pixel stroke on the shape is needed, and preferably placed on a separate layer named “Cut Path”.
Windslits We can add windslits wherever you need them, Windslits theoretically allow air to pass through the banner, preventing damage to the banner. In reality, the amount of load removed from the banner by cutting slits in it does almost nothing to reduce the load the banner, but does cause damage to the banner by cutting through the internal scrim material that gives the banner strength.
