General Print File Setup Guidelines

OVERVIEW: Please make your files clean and simple. Supply only the files that we will need to output your job. Always keep a backup of the files that you supply to us. Remember, the more detailed you are in preparing your job, the faster we will be able to turn it around. We also need a sample (print out) of your final job for accurate output. If you are e-mailing your file, fax a hardcopy. Our fax number is 604-464-6764.

FONTS: Supply all the fonts used in your document, including fonts used in any linked EPS files. We highly recommend OpenType fonts, however we can also accept PostScript & TrueType fonts. (Please note that PostScript Fonts are made up of two files, a Screen Font and a Printer Font. Both fonts must be included for the project to print correctly.).

TYPE STYLES: Do not use the 'type styles' provided by your layout application (such as 'Bold', 'Italic', 'Outline', etc.) For example, only bold your type by selecting the bold version of the font. (ex: rather than creating a bold Helvetica by hitting the "bold" button, go to your font menu and select 'Helvetica Bold'.)

EPS GRAPHICS: (Vector Based) Convert all of your typesetting to paths (or outlines) when saving EPS graphics out of Illustrator or Freehand. This will minimize font rejustification problems during the processing of your file.

LINKED IMAGES: When sending native application format files, also provide all external image files. All images must be in CMYK, grayscale , or bitmap color modes. Images must be saved in either TIFF or EPS format (do not use JPEG or RGB.)

Be sure to update your links in the layout files whenever you alter any of the original images. Many programs, such as QuarkXpress & InDesign have a collect for output feature which can help you gather your fonts & images for project submission. See your user's manual for a description of this function and how it works.

RESOLUTION: We suggest a final image resolution of 300 dpi . Bitmap (1-color) files such as logos and line work should be 600 dpi.

DOCUMENT SIZE: The document page size should be set to the final trim size of your printed piece. For example, if your single sheet is trimmed to 8.5"x11" then your document size should be set to 8.5"x11".

TRAPPING: If you have spot colors in your file, and the colors come within 1/16" of each other, be sure that you have applied the trapping needed. Note this design feature to our Graphic Artists. We are not responsible for incorrect color separations. If the file will be printed to the edge of the paper (called a Bleed,) provide 1/8 inch additional image beyond where the image will trim. Note this design feature to our Graphic Artists.

BLEEDS: Leave 1/8 inch (.125") for any image or color that bleeds off the edge of the page. Do not change the size of the document, just drag the picture box over the edge of the document.

LIVE AREA: Do not place any type closer than 1/8 inch to the edge of the page. This allowance will insure that your typesetting will not be trimmed off during binding.