For those that understand the basics of setting up files for high quality print production, the checklist below will ensure your graphic files meet our minimum prepress file standards.

More comprehensive information on preparing graphic files for high quality printing and application specific information can be found in our file setup guidelines. This is a great resource for new clients, those whom are new the graphic design for print, or anyone which requires additional information not covered in the checklist below.

1. Page Size:
The Page Size of your document must be set to equal the final trim size for single sheet documents. For multi-page documents, such as booklets, the Page Size should equal the final folded size. The exception is Photoshop files that require bleed (see Bleed).

2. Bleed:
The standard bleed measurement is .125" (1/8"). Please set bleed values in all programs that accept them. Extend bleeding elements (photos, tints, rules, solids, etc.) 1/8" beyond the trim area for proper volume trimming. Photoshop files: add 1/4" to each dimension to allow 1/8" bleed on all four sides. Please flatten all Photoshop files.

3. Color Palette:
Use CMYK mode and CMYK color palettes for process color jobs. Do not use RGB preview modes or palettes. Our RIP converts RBG files to CMYK with unpredictable results.

4. Spot Colors:
If your order is intended to print in spot colors (Pantone PMS inks) then leave the spot colors active. For offset process color or digital printing, please convert all Pantone spot colors or RGB colors to CMYK. If you file will print digitally, please note that digital presses cannot process PMS colors.

5. Image Resolution:
Photo images should be at least 300 ppi at 100% of the final size on your printed piece.

6. Fonts:
To avoid font substitutions either supply a font package, convert all fonts to outlines, or rasterize any type layers. If you create PDF files, make sure fonts are included.

7. Folding:
Please use our folding templates at to build your file or to verify folds on existing files. Mechanized folding requires some variation in panel sizes on folded items. Example: trifold brochure panels are not equal. Some folding templates are paper weight specific, so be sure to pick a template that matches the paper used on your order.

8. Single Sheet Documents:
The page size for single sheet documents must equal the trim size. Please submit separate files for each side if your software does not support multiple pages.

9. Multi-Page Documents:
The page size for multi-page documents, such as stitched booklets, should be set to equal the folded size. Files may be submitted with "facing pages" as long as the page size is set to equal the single page or folded size. Do not submit files in "Printer Spreads" as they require extra charges for processing.

10. Page Count:
The total number of pages in all stitched documents—such as magazines, catalogs or booklets—must be divisible by 4. Loose-leaf documents—such as coil bound booklets or corner-stapled pamphlets—are divisible by 2. Pages should be submitted in order including covers and blank pages so the total page count is complete from cover to cover.