Resources / FAQs

Resources

FAQs

How can I get my files in to you?

You can either supply us with the file(s) on CD/DVD, provide the information as an attachment to an email, or send us the file(s) via FTP.

We advise that all files be compressed before sending via email or FTP, as this not only speeds up file transfer, but also helps to prevent file corruption.  We recommend that email only be used for files less than 2MB – for larger files FTP or a CD/DVD would be the best option.

If you would like further assistance in getting your files over to us, please contact us and we will be more than happy to guide you through the process.

What steps can I take to ensure that the files I create output properly?

There are several tips that will ensure your files print out as you expect them to.

  1. Supply all fonts and images. Many design and layout programs now allow you to 'collect' all fonts and images from within the program, making the process much simpler.  For users of PostScript (Type 1) fonts, be sure to send both the "printer" and "screen" components for each font.
  2. Ensure your images are of sufficient resolution.  Low resolution can cause your images to look blurry.  Often times, these problems may not show up on proofs.  Make sure resolution for colour and greyscale images is 300dpi, and 1200 dpi for black and white images.
  3. Avoid enlarging images beyond 100% of their original size in page layout programs.  Doing so will reduce a photo's resolution, and therefore its quality.
  4. To ensure colour accuracy, save all images in CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black), the industry standard for full-colour reproduction.  Other colour spaces such as RGB and LAB can contain colours that can not be reproduce using the 4-colour print process.
  5. Supply a sample proof.  Client-supplied proofs allow our production staff to check their output for completeness and accuracy.  Hard copy proofs are preferable, but a PDF "soft-proof" is acceptable.
  6. Avoid using images from "the Web".  Images used on websites are typically only 72dpi and RGB colour, neither of which are suitable for high quality reproduction.  If you do manage to find suitable images on the web, make sure you have the creator's permission to use them - many are copyrighted.
  7. Supply your files with crop marks and bleeds.  If you need design elements or images to run right to the edge of your finished piece, make sure all elements extend a minimum of 1/8" past the trim edge of the document.  Indicate the trim dimensions of your document by including crop marks.  This will allow our bindery staff to trim through the colour, thereby eliminating the sliver of white occasionally seen at the edge of printed pieces.
  8. Supply only the file(s) required for output.  Complex print jobs can involve processing many individual files. Supplying only the required files helps to keep the process simple and avoid errors.  We recommend using layout software that has a "collect for output" feature, or using a third-party file-collection utility such as FlightCheck; both help to make the organization process quicker, less tedious and error-free.
  9. Give your file(s) a descriptive name.  Including the name of your organization and/or project title in your file name helps to avoid errors.  This becomes especially important if multiple files or multiple versions (e.g. revisions) of the same file are supplied.
  10. Indicate what type of file you are supplying, version number and platform (Mac or PC): This information helps our prepress department to determine the most efficient method to process your file.