Color - Vector colors given arbitrary names provide no reference for color matching. If a pantone color is edited to change the color, please indicate that information before production begins. Never spec vector colors in QuarkXPress using RGB values. Vector colors should be spec'd as PANTONE Coated spot colors or CMYK process whenever possible. Raster files can be prepared in CMYK or RGB, however they should always be tagged with the working color space used by the creator to insure accurate reproduction. If vector colors spec'd in Quark or Illustrator must match colors in scans or raster files prepared in Photoshop, be sure to indicate that information to us before we go into production. Raster files are handled differently than vector colors for printing and special provisions must be made in pre-production to handle those files appropriately. Try to keep your color modes consistent throughout your projects. Any support files placed in page layout programs such as Quark, InDesign, Illustrator, etc. should be consistent with the vector colors used in the final layout.
DPI - Recommended resolution will vary by print type and size. As a general rule for photographic output (Lambda and LightJet); 400ppi for images 16x20 and smaller will maximize quality, 20x24 and above will be fine with 150ppi–200ppi. For large prints (40x60 and larger), the eye is more forgiving and resolutions of 100ppi and even less can produce surprisingly adequate results. For Inkjet Prints, Vinyl Banners, and Dye Sublimation (fabric) Banners, resolutions of 100ppi–150ppi will be fine. All of the recommended standards are flexible. If you question whether or not your file seems inadequate for the size output you require, please contact us so we can take a look and recommend a solution.
Photographic Prints - Lambda and Lightjet printing - our typical photographic surface is matte. Unless files can be printed on the d-lab (with a size limitation of 12”x18”), specifying a glossy surface will require additional time to fit into the production schedule.
Dye Sublimation - Due to the nature of the dye sublimation process and the various fabrics used, precise pantone and color matching is difficult. If that is a requirement, additional time and proofing must be allowed for in the production schedule. Be sure to give precise instructions for finishing and set up your file accordingly. Please indicate if bleed needs to be added (or if you did already) for finishing such as pole pockets or hems.
Preparing files to be cut on the i-Cut - Ideally, files to be cut out will be prepared in Illustrator or Photoshop. The i-Cut needs a vector path to create its cuts. The shape to be cut out must be a CLOSED path, the better and smoother the path, the better and smoother the cut. When working in Illustrator, please place your cutout paths on a separate layer called “cutline”, this layer will not print.
Although the i-Cut is very precise, bleed beyond the cutline may be helpful. Also, keep in mind that inside corners will have a slight radius if the material has to be routed as opposed to a knife cut. If there are to be holes drilled they should be indicated as closed paths as well. Holes smaller than 3/16” may be problematic.
