File Preparation

Accepted File Formats

How do I know if an image is the right resolution?

For most print work, we would need 300dpi at 100% (actual) size. For large items such as posters, 150 dpi at actual size is acceptable.

How much bleed do I add?

1/8" bleed is normal for most items

What kind of pdf file do you need?

We can support any PDF file. For color sensitive work we prefer PDF X1/a which is a pdf format for standard press specifications. Other PDF files can be used with limited color expectations. PDF X1/a documents can be generated by using Adobe Acrobat Pro's "PDF X1/a" distiller preset, or by using the PDF X1/a export preset in Adobe InDesign.

Why do I need to send fonts?

Many fonts can have different metrics, even if they have the same name. By sending us your fonts we minimize the chance of text reflow occuring in your document.

What is FTP?

Because many email systems have a limit on the amount of data you can send and receive(typically 5 to 10 Megabytes per message) we prefer FTP to transfer large files. FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a method of sending any files of any size through the internet. Most operating system have rudimentary FTP functions, but it's better to use a specialized application to handle ftp uploads. These applications are called an FTP Client.

What is an FTP client?

An FTP Client is a program that handles uploads and downloads using the File Transfer Protocal (FTP). There are many utilities on various platforms that achieve this. The easiest ones to use are CyberDuck for Mac OS X and CuteFTP for Windows.

What should I do prior to sending my job via FTP?

You should compress your job into a single .zip file. Collect the whole job into a single folder using the collection functions of your desktop publishing application (In InDesign choose File-> Package.. In Quark, choose File-> Collect for Output).

After the folder is created, you'll need to create an archive of it. Under Mac OS X, Select the created folder in Finder and choose "File -> Create Archive". In Windows XP, right click the created folder, point to "New", and then click "Compressed (zipped) Folder". The resulting .zip file is the only file to transfer via FTP.

What is your FTP information?

Please contact us for FTP log-in details.