How to Setup Your Files for Printing
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4.17.12 + Michelle Hokanson
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Create Your Files Using Process Color
Process color or four color, is a subtractive color model, used in color printing, also used to describe the printing process itself. CMYK refers to the four inks used in most color printing: cyan, magenta, yellow, and key black. This is the color process that we use on our Digital and Offset Presses. Also keep in mind, for a true solid Black, use similar CMYK values to these: C: 60 M: 40 Y: 40 K: 100. We can also print using PANTONE colors, but this usually adds a color to the process and an additional cost.
Best File Formats for Printing
The file format we prefer for printing is a PDF. This allows us to print your files without missing fonts, links, or images. A high-resolution flattened JPEG also works well for printing photos and giclee work. We prefer at least 300 dpi on these types of files to ensure a clean, sharp image. Any other file or layout formats must have fonts outlined, and links and fonts packaged.
Use Templates to Get the Truest Print & Cut
Please use the templates on our website to set up your files for bleed and trimming. Make sure you leave enough space around your live area to ensure important information will not be cut off.
Here are a few terms that might help:
Bleed - a term that refers to printing that goes beyond the edge of the sheet after trimming. The bleed is the part on the side of your document that gives the printer that small amount of space to move around paper and design inconsistencies.
Trim - the final size of a product after its unnecessary parts have been cut off or removed.
Live Area – is the area where your art and type should be safely tucked into so they are not trimmed or cut-off.
Summary
Following these guidelines and providing us with a print ready PDF allows us to turn your job around quicker and provide a better looking end product. We are always happy to help if you have any questions on these Pre-Press steps. We enjoy working with you to provide a product that you will be excited to share with others. Please contact us to check turnaround times and to ensure that we can get your product finished on time.
For more information, check out this article: http://www.nikibrown.com/designoblog/2010/03/08/set-up-files-for-printing/#ixzz1sKmo4Kpz