Before You Begin

Quick Start Checklist

All type has been proofread; spell check is recommended

Page layouts are correct

Margins are set correctly

Artwork matches the specified dimensions

Acceptable art file formats are used

All fonts are included

Colors are in CMYK mode

Max file size is below 500MB

Bleeds

A 1/8" border must be added to pictures and designs bleeding to the edge. This ensures there is no white space or border showing around the artwork. Pictures that bleed should extend off the edge of the digital page by 1/8”. It is also important to keep text at least a 1/4" away from the paper edge or the trim line to prevent accidental cropping.

Color Specifications

Print previews are not a safe and sure measuring tool for color accuracy. Colors in the file might be affected by monitor calibration, screen resolution, lighting and more. Many Pantone® colors show a marked color shift when converted to four-color process.

For one, two or three-color jobs printed in Pantone spot color, make sure your colors are specified as spot color and that they separate correctly. You can test this by printing separations on your laser printer.

To achieve the desired color on press, digital files must reflect accurate color models and percentages. Please make sure all colors are in CMYK mode for color accuracy and a better-quality output.

Want to learn more about PMS colors, printing methods or other print-related topics? Check out our “Print Buyers Handbook” on the home page.

Image Resolutions

• All images and pictures should be 300 dpi.

• Rasterized text or logos should be 1200 dpi.

Digital Proofs

We provide PDF files as electronic soft proofs. These digital proofs intend to show you the layout and design elements of your job but cannot be a guarantee of color accuracy. If color accuracy is of extreme importance to you, please ask for hard copy proof. This typically takes three to five business days with shipping.

Acceptable File Types

Once you’ve gone through every step, it’s time to save your file. A high-resolution PDF is the preferred file format. Please make sure that all fonts are outlined if included.

In-Design and Adobe Illustrator files can also be utilized. It is critical that all art links be included. Fonts should be outlined or included as well.

Maximum Max File Size

The maximum file size that you can upload is 500MB.

How to Use a Die Line

A die line is a template to show the structure of a product and allow the designer to place their art. Our die lines can be easily downloaded from the website and imported into any design software you prefer. Simply navigate to “Download Templates” at the bottom of the page.

Using Your Own Die Line

We are happy to produce your product using a die line that you have used with a different printer. However, this will require a custom quote. Templates can vary by manufacturer and the finished product may not be what is desired because of these variances in the die. For best results, we recommend placing your art onto our die line. Our templates are located in the footer of this website for all products, and are also located on each of the product and upload art pages.

Are you ready to begin?