Artwork Guidelines

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To ensure the highest quality results and a smooth printing process, we ask that all submitted artwork adheres to the following guidelines. Properly prepared files help us deliver exceptional prints that meet your expectations, while avoiding potential delays or issues. Please review these guidelines carefully before submitting your files.

1. File Formats

  • Preferred Formats: PDF, AI, EPS and PSD
  • Avoid: Word documents, Excel files, and low-resolution images

2. Resolution

  • Minimum Resolution: 300 DPI (dots per inch) at the final print size.
  • Low-resolution files may appear pixelated or blurry when printed.

3. Color Mode

  • Preferred Color Mode: CMYK for print (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black)
  • Avoid: RGB color mode, as it is optimized for screens and may result in color shifts when printed.

4. Bleed and Safe Zone

  • Bleed: Include a 3mm bleed on all sides for any artwork that extends to the edge of the page.
  • Safe Zone: Keep all important text and elements at least 3mm inside the trim line to avoid cutting issues.

5. Fonts and Text

  • Convert Text to Outlines: To prevent font issues, convert all text to outlines/curves in vector files.
  • Minimum Font Size: Ensure text is at least 6pt for legibility.

6. Margins and Borders

  • Margins: Maintain a margin of at least 3mm inside the trim line to ensure no essential content is cut off.
  • Borders: Avoid thin borders near the edge of the design as they might appear uneven when trimmed.

7. Image and Graphic Quality

  • Vector Graphics: Use vector graphics (AI, EPS) for logos and icons to ensure they are sharp at any size.
  • Embedded Images: Ensure all images are embedded in the file to avoid missing elements.

8. Transparency and Layers

  • Flatten Layers: If possible, flatten your artwork layers before saving the final file to prevent any issues with transparency.
  • Avoid Transparency: Transparencies can cause unpredictable results; it's best to flatten them or avoid them altogether.

9. File Naming

  • Naming Convention: Use clear, descriptive filenames (e.g., "CompanyName_BusinessCard_Front.pdf") to avoid confusion.

10. Proofing

  • Proof Your Work: Double-check all text, images, and design elements for accuracy before submission.
  • Soft Proofing: Review your design in CMYK mode on your screen to anticipate color changes.

11. Special Instructions

  • Spot Colors and Foiling: Clearly indicate any special requirements like spot colors, embossing, or foiling in the file or accompanying notes.

12. Submission Guidelines

  • Upload Method: Provide clear instructions on how clients can submit their artwork, such as via email, an online portal, or a file-sharing service.
  • File Size: If the file is too large for email, recommend compressing it (without losing quality) or using a file-sharing service.