ARTWORK REQUIREMENTS

1. Software Supported
We can output digital files from the following software products: Adobe Illustrator CS3, Photoshop CS3, InDesign CS3, Macromedia Freehand MX, QuarkXPress 6, and CorelDraw version 11 or earlier. If you are using a newer version than what is listed, please save your document as an earlier version that is compatible with our software versions listed. If the software you are using is not on this list, please contact us as some programs can save files in an EPS or JPEG format that may be acceptable for output.

2. Setting up your document
Please build one file per banner design. In the case of programs that support multiple pages only place one banner design per page. Create your document dimensions in inches, NOT feet. If your final product is 3' x 5', build it as 36" x 60". Inset your text and important graphics 2.5" from the edge to prevent them from being sewn thru in the finishing process. Please remember to save a copy of your file with the type converted to outlines, paths or curves and send us this copy to prevent any font substitution problems.

3. Bitmap or Scanned Images (i.e. Photoshop files)
When including Photoshop (bitmap) images, you should scan or create your image at it’s final reproduction size at a resolution of 85-100 pixels per inch minimum. Rasterized type in Photoshop will lose it’s crisp look and stair-step if the file resolution is too small. A typical Photoshop file with the correct resolution will be between 35 MB to 200 MB (uncompressed) or larger depending on the final reproduction size. You can save these files in the JPEG format with the quality or compression level set to Highest Quality or Maximum Quality. This setting ensures there is no distortion or loss of detail while providing the best compression of the file.

4. Color Matching
If color is critical to your job, for additional charges we can produce a small print sample of your file for you to inspect. Color corrections can then be made and another print sample made for final approval. If you specify pantone spot colors, our color management will attempt to get as close as possible, however this may result in a color that does not look as you intended. Due to the nature of digital imaging, exact Pantone spot color matches are not always possible. For an additional fee we can provide you with a printed color chart so you can see how your Pantone spot colors will print. Please note that metallic inks are not available for digital printing. Pantone’s CMYK equivalent will be substituted for the metallic inks specified in your file. If you do not wish this substitution to occur, please substitute a non-metallic color to simulate the effect you are trying to achieve.

5. Hem and Trim Allowance
Our standard hem turns 1.125" of material and is double stitched with the stitching coming in 3/4" from the folded edge. A 2.5" margin from the unfinished trim edge of a banner is required to prevent Live content from being turned and sewn. Pole pockets are calculated based on the diameter of the pole. Up to 1" pole diameter would use a standard 3" pocket that has a 2.25" opening (measured flat). 1.25" - 2" Poles would use a 4" pocket that has a 3.25" opening (measured flat). Please request a template for banners that require pole pockets to help prevent your live content from being sewn thru.

6. Try one of our templates
Our templates are the best way to minimize production delays. They are created to the exact dimensions of the product you are ordering and include guides to show the live area, bleed and allowances for trimming and hemming. When you call us, ask for a template and specify the software program you will use to create your artwork.

If you need further clarification, please contact us.

FILE SUBMISSION GUIDELINES