When using images keep with high resolution images 300 dpi (dots per inch) or higher. With some large format signs you can get away with 72 dpi but ask before committing to that image in your print materials. Note that you cannot change a 72 dpi image to a 300 dpi high resolution image. It is just the way it goes. You will have a fuzzy image that will not do justice for your company. Images should be saved in the Tagged Image File Format (TIFF) or Encapsulated PostScript (EPS), if not in this format you will need to convert.
Make sure your files are in CMYK color mode (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black (key)), this is so colors remain exactly the same as they appear on your computer as it does on the final project. RGB colors will need to be converted and make sure you have a professional commercial printer do that for you so that your favorite candy red doesn’t come out stop sign red (yes there is a difference).
Printer’s marks are essential on every submitted file, these are bleeds and crop marks that can ensure your printed project is cut correctly and allows for a margin of error. For each program including InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop and more click here for specific guidelines. Make sure all fonts and photos are linked/embedded, here are instructions. Make sure when saving your file that these are saved in the entire package where you can find in the file option. If you cannot, then make sure to send all relevant art in a separate file (if over 10 MB, use DropBox or create a compressed .zip file to learn how to do that click here.)
Once your desired document includes high-resolution photos, is in CMYK color format and includes crop marks and a bleed make sure it is saved in a print-ready PDF (Adobe’s Portable Document Format). This will be an option once saving (Export).
Finally, you can send via e-mail or through our website.
We know this is a lot and seems overwhelming at first. But soon it will be second nature and we are always here to help you through. Read some FAQs for further information on the foreign language I just introduced you to, and there are some other resources on our website like tutorials, articles and training! Fun, fun! You’ll be a print expert in no time. Learning these universal print requirements will also cut down on your time as well as your printer, so the process runs smoother, you spend less time on the project and so do we, which saves you money! Win, win for everyone.
AJ Printing & Graphics and Wine Country Signs is a commercial printer in Santa Rosa, California specializing in graphic design and layout. We put our relationships with our clients over everything in order to ensure their success. With over 30 years’ experience in the industry, leave the printing to us and focus on other things. We are a green business, recycling all of our paper and buying from trusted businesses that commit to the sustainability of our planet. We are your partner in print, design and marketing located at 1315 North Dutton Ave., Santa Rosa, CA (707) 525-8600!