Print / Output Specifications
The best file format for us to print from is a high quality print pdf. This one file format is easier to send and avoids any potential issues with file formats, fonts and missing/corrupt graphics. The artwork size should be set at the same size as required output. However this is not always possible due to the constaints of the software you are using. Quark Xpress has a maximum page size of 1219 x 1219 mm. InDesign has a maximum page size of 5486 x 5486 mm (you can go wider if you use multiple pages as spreads). If your design is larger than your maxium page size then you will have to supply your pdf at half size or quarter size. Any scanned images should be at least 300 dpi or more depending on final output size. Because of InDesigns’ larger maximum page size and ease of exporting to pdf format, it is fast becoming the prefered application for creating artwork for large format printing. After creating your pdf it is a good idea to check the final output quality. This can be done by printing a finished size patch and checking on screen at the finished size. If your artwork has been created at quarter size you will need to view you pdf on screen at 400%. Make sure you have overprint preview on. When you are happy with the quality of your pdf(s) you should then zip your file(s) for sending via email or ftp.
What the hell is PDF?
Portable Document Format (PDF) is a file format used to present documents in a manner independent of application software, hardware, and operating systems. You can convert any document to Adobe PDF using Adobe Acrobat Software. if you don’t have the full version, some programs have a function called “Export to PDF” or “Save as PDF”, usually found under “File” on the toolbar menu. Alternatively you can visit: www.adobe.com/product/acrobat/readermain – for a free trail online. There are free versions available on the internet. Always check your page size settings before creating the PDF. (Most programs come from the USA where the default is Letter so you may have to change this to A4 210mm x 297mm). Before sending the file always check your document by previewing the pdf file that you have created – it may look different to the Word document!
Other preferred file types
- PSD (Photoshop)
- TIF
- EPS
- JPG
All colors to be in CMYK. Spot colors ie: pantone might not be achievable from process color print as in most digital printers.
If you do have a file created from Microsoft Office Suite: ie Excel, Powerpoint. Be aware there are no way guarantees the file we print is what you’re expecting. However, its not the end of the world yet, we are happy to print a proof of the file for you. First proof is usually free. Then $15+GST per after.
What is bleed?
Bleed is a printing term that refers to printing that goes beyond the edge of the sheet before trimming. In other words, the bleed is the area to be trimmed off. The bleed is the part on the side of a document that gives the printer a small amount of space to account for movement of the paper, and design inconsistencies. Artwork and background colors can extend into the bleed area. After trimming, the bleed ensures that no unprinted edges occur in the final trimmed document.
It is very difficult to print exactly to the edge of a sheet of paper/card so, to achieve this, it is necessary to print a slightly larger area than is needed and then trim the paper/card down to the required finished size. Images, background images and fills which are intended to extend to the edge of the page must be extended beyond the trim line to give a bleed.
What is the turn-around time frame?
Most jobs can be done the next working day. The turnaround is for standard products only. Custom and high quantity products may take longer for production. Production time begins the day you approve the proof.
Please always ask if your job is urgent, we can be very busy sometimes.
