Everyone wants to put out a printed product that they can be proud of. That starts with a good art file! The artwork, or Pre-Press, lays the groundwork for everything that comes after it in the printing process. A file that has been set up incorrectly can lead to distorted images, screens falling out, and type that is not legible.
We have created a short checklist that should produce the best-printed product possible. Following this guideline will help in laying the groundwork for a product you can be proud of.
- Art files should be Adobe Illustrator or EPS files, with all linked images and fonts.
- Maximum of 8 colors – combined CMYK & PMS Colors are OK.
- All photos should be 300 DPI CMYK
- Minimum screens of 3%
- Bleeds should be minimum 1/16”
- Print should be minimum 1/16” from die lines unless it bleeds.
- Minimum font size 6pt.
- Minimum reverse font size 8pt.
- Avoid type built from CMYK
- Avoid reversing type out of CMYK
- Maximum 150 LPI
- Avoid lines built from CMYK
- Minimum line size is ½” pt.
- Minimum reversed line size is 1 pt.
Creating a printed piece can be stressful at times, but these guidelines should take the guesswork out of file preparation and help your printer produce the best product possible. This is just a guideline for best practices if you have any questions about your project feel free to reach out to one of our knowledgeable sales reps.