When submitting files for output be sure to include all placed artwork and fonts along with a current proof for content and color. Failure to do so can sometimes render unexpected results and/or additional costs.


FILE SET-UP TIPS:

Bleeds: Please include .25-inch bleed on all edges of your graphic. Include crop marks.

Color Matching: Spot colors should be spec'd in Pantone (PMS) using the 'Solid to Process' guide. Crystal Jet (tm) Digital Graphics with it's superior color gamut will always render a better match than the process side of the 'Solid to Process' guide, but it is still the best point of reference for the process conversion of a solid color. If a tint of a PMS color or a 4-color process color is spec'd in your file, a good color proof, or sample, must be supplied for color matching.

Please keep in mind that no two output devices are just alike. Color printers can vary significantly in how they print; especially when they lack proper calibration. All of our printers at Graphic Production Alliance have been calibrated to industry standards and we will do everything possible for the best color representation of your file from our equipment.

Color Space: Be sure to set your layout application, such as Illustrator, to CMYK mode for best results. Photoshop (bitmap) files can be either RGB or CMYK. RGB has a wider color gamut (better) and produces a smaller file size.

Compression: LZW compression is acceptable; JPEG compression is not when expecting professional results.

Fonts: You may either include your fonts for output or convert all text to curves before submitting your order. Both methods are acceptable, but converting to curves may prevent Graphic Production Alliance from assisting with text corrections if needed.

File Type: Graphic Production Alliance can work with almost any native file format and prefers it over PDF files. PDF files seriously limit the ability of our production technicians to correct for color or make copy corrections. Placed artwork can be either a (bitmap) TIF (w/ or w/o LZW Compression) or an (bitmapped or vector) EPS (w/NO COMPRESSION); never use a JPEG or GIF for laying out large-format graphics if you expect professional results.

Image Editing: You, the client are expected to have attended to all details of editing including spotting, color balance, blending and clipping paths. If you need assistance with image editing, please consult your Personal Advisor.

Layers: Use them, love them and send them to us! Once your file is flattened editing charges may be incurred to assure exact color matching. Consult your Personal Advisor before flattening your files for output.

Resolution: Bitmapped files from applications like Photoshop should be no less than 100 d.p.i. at final size and no more than 200 d.p.i. If you are designing at 1/4 scale or 1/2 scale, be sure to increase your resolution appropriately when scanning. Graphic Production Alliance does not charge any set-up fees for enlarging files built proportionally to the final print size. Files are typically acceptable at 25, 50 or 100%.

Print Size: Graphic Production Alliance is a custom studio and hence there are no predefined sizes. Our maximum print width is 60-inches but availability of substrates for mounting may limit the maximum width to 48-inches. Some sizes are more common or more economical to produce, please consult your Personal Advisor for details.

If your specific question(s) is not addressed here, please contact your Personal Advisor or our Production Manager.