Document Colors
Ensure your files are prepared using CMYK color mode instead of RGB. Set black text to 100% K rather than 4c for a solid black appearance. When using special colors, enter the desired Pantone or HKS colors into the color channel. For special colors, create areas with another process color (CMYK) overlaying a special color using knockout instead of overprinting. For greyscale items, use greyscale color mode and create grey areas in shades of black for optimal print results.
Files in Original Size
Create your print files in their final trim size. Artwork that is too small or too large will need to be scaled, which can reduce the quality of the final product. Avoid resizing issues by starting with the correct dimensions.
The Right Trim/Bleed
Always add trim/bleed to your files to account for cutting differences in production. Standard trim allowance is 2mm. Specific requirements include:
- Envelopes: 1mm
- Advertising technology products, presentation folders, packaging & calendars: 3mm
- Textile stretcher frames: 15mm
Safety Margin
Keep all important content at least 3mm away from the edge of the final size. For spiral-bound calendars or brochures, maintain a margin of at least 20mm from the binding edge. Ensure background pictures, colors, and layouts extend into the bleed area to prevent white lines from cutting tolerances.
Page Numbers
Delete any unnecessary pages. For multi-page files, create each page in sequential order starting with page 1 (front page) and continuing to the last page (back page).
Image Resolutions
For best print quality, use the following resolutions:
- Graphics, images & pictures: 250 dpi
- Color images & greyscales: 250 dpi
- Line artwork (drawings & small text): 1200 dpi
- Advertising technology & ad posters with text: 150 dpi
- Advertising technology products: 72 dpi
Line Weights
Ensure all lines are at least 0.22 pt. Lines that are too thin will be automatically increased to a printable weight. Avoid using borders to define layouts as mechanical tolerances might cut into them, affecting the final product.
File Formats
Save your files in print-ready, vector formats such as PDF, EPS, AI, PS, JPG, TIF. Reduce all layers into a single, flat, background layer.
Embedded Fonts & Paths
Convert all fonts and paths to outlines to prevent printing issues. Ensure there is sufficient contrast between font colors and background colors for readability.
