Art Guidelines
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  • Please follow the guidelines below to prepare your art files for maximum efficiency.
  • All Catalog items MUST be setup using our templates.
 SYSTEM PLATFORM:
  The following system platforms are supported:
  • MAC (preferred)
  • PC
 ACCEPTABLE PROGRAMS:
  Current versions of:
  • QuarkXPress
  • InDesign
  • Illustrator
  • FreeHand
  • Photoshop
  We cannot accept:
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Power Point
  • Microsoft Publisher
  Be sure to copy ALL parts of file
  • document/layout file(s)
  • fonts (screen and printer)
  • graphics (embedded and nested images)
  • .tif photos/scans
  • .eps files
  Submit lasers
 PREFLIGHT CHECKLIST:
  • Download design template(s).
  • Send files in their native application.
  • Save files in editable format, not as PDF or PostScript.
  • Convert all type in Illustrator & FreeHand to outlines or paths.
  • Include printer & screen fonts. Do not use TrueType fonts, styles or attributes.
  • Do not specify a rule wt. of hairline. Define as .25 point rule.
  • Clipping paths should be created in Photoshop.
  • Page/panel sizes should be correct for item ordered.
  • Save graphic files in .EPS or .TIFF format. Not PICT, JPEG or GIF.
  • PROCESS GRAPHICS MUST BE IN CMYK, NOT RGB.
  • Include embedded or nested images.
  • Image scan resolution should be 300 dpi for grayscale & CMYK images. Use 1200 dpi for bitmap line art.
  • Place all scans at 100% or smaller (enlargements compromise quality).
  • Define all colors as spot PMS or CMYK in both graphic & page layout programs.
  • Rotate, scale and crop all images before placing on page.
  • Include bleed .25” (1/4")
  • Do not apply traps to your file. We will handle.
  • Include color separated lasers.
  • Proofread all your files. We are not responsible for errors in submitted files
 FILE TRANSFER:
  IMPORTANT: Include your P.O. # and job name in the subject line of your email or file transfer.
  Be sure to fax or send lasers with your order form.

 HOW TO USE OUR TEMPLATES:
    Our templates are EPS format. It represents the item flat, unglued looking at the printed side of sheet. You may complete your layout in Illustrator. Simply create a new layer(s) for art, keep template on it's own layer. The EPS format can also be easily placed into any desktop publishing application. Please see instructions indicated below. Please DO NOT alter our template. The "dieline" color swatch is a custom color specific to our workflow. Please DO NOT specify any elements as "dieline" color in your layout or they will not print on the final output. For layout assistance with complex items, an item sample can be helpful. Click here to request a sample.
  • Download the template
  • Save the template file into your folder
  • Use your page layout program (QuarkXPress or InDesign)
  • Create a new document to size of item
  • Place the template into the new document
  • Build your file, adding text, graphics and images
    • Tip: Keep the template outline on a separate layer; this will allow you to turn it on and off
 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
  • No charge to output properly submitted files in acceptable programs.
  • Charges to correct or alter files is based on complexity of the changes.
  • Normal production time begins with acceptable output from your file.