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To ensure the highest quality prints, Corvallis Custom recommends that you follow these guidelines:
What kind of files should I send for printing?
The following are file formats which are the easiest to work with and which provide the best print results: .ai / .pdf / .psd / .eps / .png / .jpg / .tif / .bmp / .svg
***Please don't forget to "rasterize" your font layers, or “create outlines” if working in Adobe Illustrator (.ai) to ensure accurate printing.***
If rasterizing is not possible or you are unfamiliar with this tool, please include the font file or the name of the font and where we can get a free download.
Should I send a Vector and a Raster?
Both (when possible)! Vector artwork (data points) always gives the best, crispest results. However, not all projects can be vectored (especially photo images, shaded hand drawings, and artwork with color gradients). Instead, photos and drawings will always be raster artwork (pixels). With simpler drawings, we can sometimes convert these into vector art, but for the most part, the conversion will yield unwanted results.
Still unsure the difference between raster or vector? Take a look at this link to read about the two different types.
The difference between Vector and Raster graphics
Do I need to send a specific font and desired text?
Hunting down fonts is time consuming and often involves a lot of guesswork and substitutions. Providing us with your desired fonts OR outlining your fonts is the best way to avoid costs associated with this. Be sure the font you select is free to use; if we must pay for your font, we will include the charge in your job as a change order. We will assume this fee is ok with you if you send us a font that requires payment in order to proceed.
Below are several websites you can use to find free fonts.
Digital Art Guidelines
Acceptable Mac & Windows Software:
- Photoshop - CMYK or Grayscale, 300 to 400 dpi, with layers when possible, saved as PSD, PDF, PNG, TIF or JPG. Image size must be set to the trim size plus 1/8" bleed all around.
- Adobe Illustrator - Save as EPS or AI file, REMEMBER TO OUTLINE YOUR FONTS.
- InDesign - Save as PDF for Acrobat 5.0, Press or Print Optimized. Remember to include bleed. We can ONLY take InDesign files if they are saved as PDF. .INDD will not work.
- PDF - Press or Print Optimized for Acrobat 5.0. Include at least 1/8" bleed all around. Images & graphics must be in CMYK format.
NOT accepted for printing: Publisher, Word, PowerPoint and other non-graphics software will require charges for converting to usable files.
Do you need bleeds and borders included in the file?
Yes!
- Bleeds: Bleed is a printed image, graphic or background that extends beyond the trim edge. For cutting purposes, bleeds must extend 1/8" beyond intended trim.
- Borders: Borders and text must be at least 1/8" inside the trim edge. We don't guarantee perfectly even borders.
- What can I do to make sure my black artwork prints as well as possible?
- Rich Black for Paper: Black backgrounds run best with a mixture of 40% Cyan, 30% Magenta, 20% Yellow and 100% Black. For all other print types, set your blacks as follows: 100% for each C,M,Y,K.
What is the preferred resolution? How do I set that?
Resolution:
- Black & White images (line art, logos): 1200 dpi
- Color & Grayscale images: 300 to 400 dpi at 100%.
When you first open Photoshop to set up your file, you will decide the resolution. Often, Photoshop will default to 72 DPI, which is a common resolution used for images that are meant to only be viewed on a screen. However, when printed, these images will always print pixelated. While you can change this after the fact, increasing the DPI later will only result in stretching your artwork while retaining pixelation.
What do I need to know about colors to make sure I am setting my files up for success?
Colors: Color images must be saved as CMYK. Color conversions from Pantone to CMYK may produce unexpected results. There will be a charge for converting RGB images to CMYK (if your file allows it) and we are unable to guarantee color integrity.*
*CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) is the preferred color setting. RGB (red, green, blue) is a color mixing system based on light and is only truly viewable on a screen. CMYK is the standard for ink and for physical printing. Some colors possible on the screen in RGB are simply not possible to print in CMYK as they require light to exist. Colors like true blue, bright pinks, purples, and neons commonly come out duller when printed. Blues and grays often change dramatically between digital screen and physical printing; we recommend a color test if exact colors are important to you. This will add time and expense to your project.
For a closer look at the science behind these color modes, take a look at the following link:
https://www.vectornator.io/blog/rgb-vs-cmyk/
Can you color match my logo?
Under no circumstances can we guarantee an exact color. We will do our best to get as close as we can. There are many factors that influence color variation, including outside temperature, humidity, print types and medium, fabric, material variation, manufacturing changes, and more. We take your branding seriously and feel it is important to set appropriate expectations regarding colors. Please talk to your PM if you have concerns.
Color Proofs: Color proofs for high variation jobs can be ordered for an additional charge. Changes made after the proof will incur additional design charges. Email proofs (softproofs) are available upon request; however, Corvallis Custom will not be responsible for color variations between your monitor and the finished job.
I am printing a booklet. What do I need to know?
Booklet work: Files must be arranged in printer spreads.
Contrast and color: In combination print and background colors, it is best to use colors that will provide the maximum brightness contrast between print and background. Readability of the printed material will be improved if black ink is used on white or cream (preferred) or pastel paper. If colored print and paper are used, two shades of the same color should be avoided and a light color should be used for the background
When can I expect to see a copy of my artwork?
Most proofs will be ready 2 business days after acceptable files are submitted. Rush service is available. Contact us for a rush quote.
PLEASE NOTE: Production time may increase and design time fees may apply if problems are encountered with files that are not set up correctly. Please See Printing Guidelines