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Missing graphics
Missing graphics can result in delays; if you
don't proof carefully it can be an expensive error when you find out
later that an image is missing or a low-resolution screen version was
printed instead.
Graphics with Broken Links
Images may appear to be missing if you change filenames after linking.
If you need to change the name of a graphic file, re-link it in your
page layout program before sending the graphics and application file.
Prefered File Types
EPS, TIFF, and other graphic file formats:
EPS for vector images and TIFF for raster/bitmap images are the
preferred format for professional high resolution printing.
Unsupported File Types
Do not send GIF, JPG, WMF, BMP, PICT, PDF and
other unsupported file formats. GIF images obtained from the Web are
too low resolution for printing and are in RGB format (RGB color space
is not designed for PostScript color printing.
WMF files often print incorrectly with the wrong colors
or changes in line weights (lines may disappear or may print thicker
than expected).
RGB vs. CMYK
When printing four color process, save your original RGB file for later
use or modifications. In your graphics application convert a copy of
the RGB graphic to CMYK, save it, then place it in your page layout
program. Send the CMYK version of your graphic to us. All
graphics for screen printing should be saved as spot or PMS colors.
Line Weights, Borders & Outlines
Line weights, borders and outlines should be
explicitly defined as .25pt or larger for offset printing, or .75pt or
larger for screen printing. Lines smaller than these may print
inconsistently or not at all. Never select hairline as the line weight.
Different programs may define hairline as different weights, and they
may use a weight that will not print well for your job. Whenever
possible, convert all text/type in your documents to paths or outlines,
eliminating the need to send fonts you used with your files. This is
easily done in programs like Illustrator, InDesign, FreeHand and
CorelDraw. When using Photoshop, flatten files before submitting, which
automatically rasterizes all fonts used. While we have an extensive
font library, we canot be expected to have every font or version that
is out there.
Use a 'Rich Black'
In Photoshop, fill solid black areas with a
"Rich Black" rather than black only. Rich Black is made up of all four
process colors, such as: 30% Cyan, 30% Magenta, 30% Yellow, and 100%
Black. This will keep solid black areas from looking gray, and should
be used for larger solid areas or heavy type over 36 point. For normal
body text, use 100% black, do not use Rich Black. Note: never use
a "Rich Black" with more than 270% total ink coverage. This will cause
problems on the press because too much ink is put down in one spot
which can affect dry time and possibly add to registration issues. To
determine total ink coverage, add the percentages of all inks used in
the "Rich Black". In the example above, 30% + 30% + 30% +
100% = 190%. Keep in mind that different files placed in the same
layout program file should use the same "Rich Black" formula.
Compression
Do not save idividually compressed images.
Compressed images often cause problems for PostScript output devices
and can considerably slow down your job; it may fail to process
altogether. For best results, send graphics in uncompressed TIFF or EPS
formats.
Adding Trap
Do not add trap to your art files. We will do this for you.
Printing Issues of Complex Images
If your artwork contains complex images such as
gradient fills or ultra fine hairlines, etc. check with us first to
ensure it can be printed as-is (depending on the printing method chosen
for your project) or if adjustments need to be made.
Modifications during page layout
It's easy to take a graphic into InDesign or
QuarkXPress and flip it around, tilt it a little, or reduce its size.
Manipulating graphics within the layout program increases the chances
that your file won't print properly. Rotate and resize images within
your graphics software before placing them in your page layout program
whenever possible.
Resolution
Low resolution graphics from the web may print,
but the resulting image is often less than acceptable. Artificially
increasing the resolution may give acceptable results on screen but the
image is still low quality and it becomes very obvious after
high-resolution printing. Too much resolution, on the other hand,
results in larger graphics files and can slow down your print job.
Preflight Software
Using the collection tools in your page layout
program can help avoid problems with missing graphics. Other programs
such as Extensive PreFlight Pro or Markzware FlightCheck can help
troubleshoot files for potential output problems before sending them to
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