Artwork Submission Guidelines

Preparing your Files for Print

Preparing your files correctly before submission helps ensure the best possible print quality while reducing production delays and unnecessary revisions. The following guidelines outline our recommendations for file formats, document setup, color management, images, fonts, and export settings. By following these specifications, you can help ensure your artwork is reproduced accurately and efficiently.

Guidelines Document

Accepted File Formats

Preferred File Formats:

✓ Press-ready PDF (PDF/X-4 preferred)
✓ Adobe InDesign package including fonts and linked images
✓ Adobe Illustrator (.AI)
✓ Adobe Photoshop (.PSD)
✓ EPS files
✓ High-resolution TIFF or JPEG files

Logo Files:
Vector artwork is strongly recommended for logos. Please provide logos as EPS, AI, or PDF files whenever possible to ensure the best print quality at any size.

Document Setup

Size
Build your file at the final trim size to ensure accurate production and finishing.

Bleeds
Include a minimum 0.125″ (1/8″) bleed on all sides of the document to prevent unwanted white edges after trimming.

Safety Margin
Keep all important text, logos, and graphics at least 0.125″–0.25″ inside the trim edge.

Multi-Page Documents
Submit PDF files as individual pages rather than printer or reader spreads.

Color Requirements

CMYK Color Mode
Convert all artwork to CMYK color mode prior to submission to ensure the most accurate color reproduction.

Spot Colors
If using Pantone® colors, please clearly identify the specific color references within your file.

RGB Files
Artwork created in RGB color mode may experience color shifts when converted to CMYK during production.

Images and Graphics

Resolution
• Color and grayscale images: 300 dpi at final size
• Line art: 600–1200 dpi

Image Quality
Avoid low-resolution images, screenshots, and graphics copied from websites.

Linked Images
Include all linked graphics when submitting native files.

Fonts

Vector Fonts
Fonts should remain in vector format to ensure sharp, high-quality reproduction at any size.

Raster Text
Avoid using rasterized text created in Photoshop, as it may appear blurry or pixelated when printed.

Black Text
Black text should be set to 100% black (K) and should not be built using CMYK or RGB color values.

PDF Export Settings

Bleed
Include bleed settings when exporting your PDF to ensure artwork extends beyond the trim edge.

Crop Marks
Include crop marks to indicate the final trim size of the printed piece.

Embedded Fonts
Embed all fonts to preserve the appearance and formatting of your text.

Image Resolution
Maintain original image resolution to ensure sharp, high-quality printing.

Password Protection
Do not password protect PDF files, as this may prevent production and prepress processing.

Have a Project in Mind?

Whether your artwork is ready to go or you’re just getting started, we’re here to help guide you through the process and ensure your project is set up for success.

Contact Our Team