[Q] What if my files comprise 0.25” bleeds?
[A] For a more precise cutting, it is a prerequisite in Signs Outlet Printing that your file should have 0.25” bleeds within its perimeter (e.g., artwork meant for a postcard with 4”x6” dimension should expand to 4.25”x6.25”). Bleeds are highly suggested especially when your image includes a white margin on all four sides. However, take note that bleeds are just optional. In case, your artwork does not have white on its perimeter, you have to incorporate bleeds in print-ready files.

[Q] Is CMYK color approach used?
[A] Yes. CMYK color approach is used for the file setup. So if the files you’ve submitted are in other format, for instance RGB or Pantone, they will be changed to CMYK mode during the preflighting process. Colors may vary when alteration from one color to another is applied.

[Q] Is there any specific file format required?
[A] No. Print-ready files that are accepted by Signs Outlet Printing can be in any of the following formats: .eps, .jpg, .pdf, .psd, .tif. As implied, the usual files accepted by PsPrint are set in the following design software applications: Adobe Photoshop® CS, Adobe Illustrator® CS, . Raster images (.tiff and .jpegs) when submitted at high quality, non-compact 300 dpi resolution, 8 bit, CMYK color style are also made possible regardless of the software program utilized to produce such designs. High quality image and text layout is not however assured when the files are in MS-Word or MS-Publisher respectively. To fully understand the process of producing a print-ready raster image that is in accordance with the Signs OutletPrinting standards, you can look up the user manual or software dealer information for details.

[Q] How will I prepare my files?
[A] To help you out in preparing your artwork files for print, Signs Outlet Printing presents thorough file preparation guidelines and how to’s for widely held software applications. If extra file setup assistance is called for, you can consult the Signs Outlet Printing Account Managers to arrange the files you need immediately and efficiently. If you want to come up with your own design but don’t have the skill to do so, we can be of assistance.

[Q] What is a resolution?
[A] A resolution is commonly attributed to DPI (Dots Per Inch). It is defined as the usual number of dots that corresponds to the flat and perpendicular dimension of a one-inch space. Normally, the resulting image is said to be more detailed and sharper in capture when there are more dots per inch. For accurate printing of your image, the image should be composed of at least 300 dots per inch (dpi) at the final print size. If your file is not 300 dpi, you’ll definitely encounter some problems in printing for you can not easily expand the dpi from a low resolution to a higher one by adjusting the DPI in your imaging program.

[Q] Is there any standard resolution for my artwork?
[A] In almost all printing jobs, the standard resolution to ensure desirable results in printing is 300 dots per inch (DPI). If your artwork entails wide format printing like large format posters and banners, we encourage more intense resolution which can extend from 300 to 1200 dpi, dependent on the purpose from which the print is primarily designed for.

[Q] Is font specification important?
[A] It is of the essence that all fonts are supplied in your layout. If your file is missing fonts, we will insist that you have to resend your files containing your font specifications. If fonts are not supplied in your file, you can also open your file in Illustrator, choose “Create Outlines”, save the fonts you want for your project, have a back-up copy of your file, and then upload it. If your file have raster images, you can open your file by using the Photoshop and select “Flatten the Layers”, re-save your artwork, and then upload it. To prevent any mistakes in printing your artwork files, it is suggested that you submit your files with the fonts included therein.

[Q] Why are texts converted to outlines?
[A] All the texts contained in your artwork files are converted to outlines with the outline arranged at zero in order to remove the need for fonts.

[Q] What if my files contain borders?
[A] Artwork that is composed of borders has to be taken into consideration. You have to make sure that all borders of your artwork file measure 1/4 (0.25) of an inch wide on each of it sides. Moreover, it is essential that you add a 1/8 (0.25) of an inch bleed in all sides of the artwork. In this way, you can be sure that proper cutting will take place, and the end product will come out in a symmetrical appearance. Borders that are not at least 1/4 (0.25) of an inch wide on each side can lead to uneven print appearance.

[Q] What can I do if my artwork contains omitted images?
[A] When your file contains omitted images, you should re-save your file well in order that images will not fade away during the printing process. Basically, we do not accept images by themselves. For that reason, you can consult one of our graphic designers to assist you with your project. If not, you should set all your images in your artwork file and see to it that the files are saved accurately. Check your software program manual to learn more information on how to save your files well. For instance, if you’re using a vector- based software program such as Illustrator, you need to verify if you are using tif file images to place, then you should embed the images when saving to an eps or pdf file. But if it is Photoshop that you’re working on, you should compress all layers before saving so that all images and text are kept in place.

[Q] What are gradients?
[A] Gradients are frequently used in printing and in most instances produce positive results. Gradients can be easily distinguished in a file for the are generally in the form of a mathematical equation (Vector) or made by the application into a chain of pixels (Raster). You can examine our guidelines on file preparation before sending in your specific artworks.

Feel that it is too Technical....Call us @ 1 877 758 5957 and our freindly product specialists will help you preparing your file and if you need your stuff designed our professional designers are ready to take your call.

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