File Setup Guidelines

For best results and trouble-free orders, please follow these guidelines when setting up your graphics file.

CMYK Vector Graphics

For best results, we recommend high-resolution (300dpi) or vector-based CMYK .pdf files with fonts converted to outlines. We do also accept high-resolution CMYK .tiff files.

If you are printing a full-color item that includes black text, the text color should be a "rich" black (using 100% each of C, M, Y and K).

Remember to set your working space, and all your placed file's color profiles, to CMYK. Split all Pantone colors into their composite CMYK elements.

Trapping is not required for the digital printing process.

If you do not own professional graphic design software, you can set up your file and convert it to .pdf at no cost using the free OpenOffice.org software suite.

Alternatively, you can skip the whole issue of files entirely when you try our convenient online design tool for a quick and easy solution to your graphic layout requirements!

Bleeds

In the graphic arts industry, the term "bleeds" refers to any piece of printed material where the colors run all the way up to the edge of the page. Bleeds are accomplished by printing the item at a larger size than its intended finished size, then trimming off the edges.

If your item does NOT have bleeds, you should leave a blank border of 1/8" all the way around the outside of your design.

Industry-standard bleeds are one-eighth of an inch (0.125"). When creating a graphics file for an item with bleeds, be sure to extend the color beyond the edge of the item by 1/8" on all sides. In other words the outer dimensions of a print-ready file will be fully 1/4" larger, in both height and width, than the finished size. You must set up your file to the proper size. If you send an improperly set up file, e.g. with colors that bleed but with a filesize that does not account for those bleeds, we will charge you extra to fix it for you.

Changes to Client-Supplied Files

If you would like us to, we are happy to make modifications to your supplied file. If you ask us to make changes to the graphic file you have submitted, we will bill you our regular rate of $65 per hour with a 1/2 hour minimum. Please be advised that some files cannot be modified; for example, text that has been converted to outlines and objects that have been rasterized are no longer editable.

Graphic Design Services

For easy file setup and creation by graphics professionals, please contact Basementia Design.