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Art File Specifications

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Setup Guidelines for Files Production files should be submitted production-ready

Include a low-resolution jpg/pdf of the images/layouts being submitted
Bleed: Include at least 2-inch bleed past the finished size.
Links: Include all placed or linked files, even if the files are embedded. If placing a low resolution link in a file, be sure to include a high-resolution file with the same name in your folder for production replacement.
Fonts: Be sure to include the font package with your graphics file(s).
Layered artwork: Submit a layered version of your file to assist in any needed color correction or element changes.
Overprint Fill: Do not use this option in your artwork: That selection, on any layer, will not process correctly.
Colors: PMS or custom colors must be specified in the file. If color is critical, indicate color space/color settings used to create artwork.
Scale: If your files are not actual size, please indicate the finished size or the scale in which they were created. It is important that artwork can be scaled to desired size.
Cut to Shape: If your design includes a die pattern, please include a printout of the design with the die pattern clearly noted. Also include the die pattern on its own layer in the digital file.

Setup Guidelines for Files All design software is current and Mac or PC compatible.

• Preferred Applications:
  • Adobe Illustrator: .ai, .pdf or .eps, layered, CMYK. Include all fonts and linked images in a separate folder.
  • Adobe Acrobat: editable pdf
  • Adobe Photoshop:
    • Layered: .tiff, CMYK. Include all fonts and linked images in a separate folder.
    • Unlayered: .tiff, .jpg or CMYK can only be sent at finish size @ 50-75 ppi. (Unlayered formats are acceptable ONLY if they are PRESS READY and not to be altered in any way).
• Acceptable Applications:
  • Adobe InDesign: .indd, CMYK, Include all fonts and linked images in a separate folder.
• Unacceptable Applications/Formats:
  • Microsoft Office: .docx/.doc .pub .xlsx .ppt/.pptx
  • Keynote: .keynote
  • Numbers: .numbers
  • Pages: .pages

Document Set-up (Vector Based)

• When using vector-based programs such as Illustrator, files should be built as close to a 1:1 ratio as possible, not going under 1/8 scale. This reduces the amount of magnification to your file in the RIP stage.
• Gradients tend to band when created in a vector based program. If possible, create any gradients in a raster based program such as Photoshop and place them into your vector document
• If your files include placed images, the image files must accompany the parent file

Document Set-up (Raster Based)

• Being a raster-based program, text lacks clarity and sharpness, so we recommend building a composite file by placing your raster images in a vector program containing your type and graphics.
• When using raster-based programs such as Photoshop, low ppi is the most common problem. Suggested ppi:
  • 1:1 Scale - 50-75 ppi
  • 1:2 Scale - 100-150 ppi
  • 1:4 Scale - 200-300 ppi
• It is not necessary to make your files with higher resolution than suggested. Please keep your files to a manageable size.

Submitting Digital Files