PROOFING PROCEDURES
UPLOADED ARTWORK GUIDELINES
The old adage goes, Garbage in, Garbage out.
We want to help ensure that we receive the highest quality images and artwork files, so we can produce the best quality print output. Listed below is all the information you need to know to prepare artwork files for a “Quality in, Quality out” successful print outcome.
To ensure a successful print project
- Submit your artwork as a “press-ready” (“print-ready”) PDF file (MAC or PC).
- For multiple print, double-sided, and/or double-print products, please design on all layouts
within the template even if the layout graphics are the same. - Always preview PDF created before submission to ensure accurate results.
- If you have a different file type other than PDF, contact support.
Using the artwork templates
- Artwork must be created using the provided templates. Our artwork templates include all necessary measurements,
bleeds and safe guides. - Do not alter the template lines in any way when creating your design.
- Do not use any of the template spot colors in your artwork. Anything using these colors is viewed as part of the template
and is automatically removed by our system. - Only include graphics to be printed. Do not include notes, comments, or additional instructions in your file.
- Delete all template lines and guides before submitting your file.
Observe the following information when creating your artwork PDF file(s)
- Outline all fonts, embed all placed images and flatten transparencies.
- Submit all artwork files in CMYK color space mode. Avoid RGB, LAB, and Indexed color spaces.
- Use 100% opaque PANTONE® Color Bridge® colors for more accurate color reproduction.
- A minimum resolution of 300dpi on textile (fabric) and a minimum resolution of 800dpi on any other material
(vinyl, rigid materials, etc.) is required for raster (pixel) images. Higher resolutions and vector files are preferred. - Use vector art when possible for logos, fonts, and line drawings.
- Bleed is required on all artwork files. Extend all artwork out to the template’s bleed line.
- Keep text, logos, & important images inside the image safety line or they might get cut off.
- Keep text, logos, & important images inside the image safety line or they might get cut off.
- Your artwork files must remain open and accessible. Do not password-protect or encrypt your files.
Proofing Procedures
When the artwork is print-ready, we send an electronic proof in PDF format. We make sure to secure final approval before beginning any print job. These proofs are vital for making sure you are satisfied with every detail of the output.
Things to check on your proof for correctness
- Spelling and text
- Print size
- Artwork layout
If the provided proof is correct, advise approval as soon as possible so production and delivery dates are not affected. After receiving approval, we will authorize the production process to begin. We are not responsible for mistakes found after approval. Once proofs are approved, no changes can be made.
Mailing List Guidelines
To ensure a successful mailing list
- Submit your mailing list as an Excel (.xls, .xlsx) or CSV (.csv) file.
- Follow our mailing list template
- Separate the NAME, ADDRESS, CITY, STATE/PROVINCE, ZIP/POSTAL CODE into separate columns
- Make sure each customer’s information is filled out fully and correctly
- Review your mailing list for accuracy
- Obtain proper permissions (were applicable)
- It is your responsibility to manage the “opt-outs” of your mailing list contacts.
If the provided proof is correct, advise approval as soon as possible so production and delivery dates are not affected. After receiving approval, we will authorize the production process to begin. We are not responsible for mistakes found after approval. Once proofs are approved, no changes can be made.
Click here to download a copy of the excel customer list template.