To ensure accurate color reproduction, clean finishing, and problem-free production, please supply artwork that meets the following specifications. Files not complying may require prepress correction and could affect deadlines and final quality.

1) File Format & Delivery

Preferred: Press-ready PDF (PDF/X-1a or PDF/X-4).
Accepted (if editable files are required): Adobe Illustrator (.ai), InDesign (.indd), Photoshop (.psd), EPS, or TIFF.
Include all linked assets: Images, fonts (where licensing allows), and any supporting files.
Do not submit: Word/PowerPoint files for final production unless specifically approved.

2) Document Size, Bleed & Safety

Build at final trim size (1:1 scale).
Bleed: Minimum 3 mm (0.125″) on all sides (unless otherwise specified).
Safety margin: Keep critical text/logos at least 3–5 mm (0.125″–0.2″) inside the trim.
Crop marks: Include crop marks; keep them outside the bleed area.
No printer marks inside the trim/bleed.

3) Color Setup & Ink

Color mode: All artwork must be CMYK (not RGB).
ICC profile: Use a standard print profile (e.g., FOGRA39/FOGRA51 or as provided by the printer).
Spot colors (Pantone): Clearly define and name spot colors consistently; avoid unintended extra spot plates.
Rich black: For large solid blacks use Rich Black (printer standard). For small text use 100% K only.
Total Ink Coverage (TAC): Keep within print limits (commonly ≤ 300% unless instructed otherwise).

4) Images & Resolution

Minimum resolution:

300 dpi for images at final size (photos).
600–1200 dpi for line art/bitmaps (as applicable).
No upscaling: Avoid enlarging low-res images; it will print soft/pixelated.
Embed or link properly: Ensure all placed images are included and up-to-date.

5) Typography & Fonts

Fonts must be embedded in the PDF, or convert text to outlines (where appropriate).
Minimum type size: Typically 6 pt (depending on font and process).
Avoid hairline fonts: Very thin strokes may break up in print.
Overprint settings: Verify overprint for black text; avoid accidental overprint on colored objects.

6) Vector Content, Lines & Effects

Preferred: Vector logos and illustrations.
Minimum line weight: Typically 0.25 pt for positive lines; 0.5 pt for reversed lines (guideline).
Transparency: If using PDF/X-4, transparency is allowed; otherwise flatten carefully.
Effects: Rasterize complex effects only when necessary and at adequate resolution.

7) Finishing, Folding & Die-Cuts

Supply a dieline for die-cut, kiss-cut, emboss/deboss, foiling, varnish, and spot UV.
Dielines must be vector, on a separate layer, set to a spot color named clearly (e.g., “DIELINE”).
Folds: Provide a folding dummy or clearly marked fold lines. Keep text away from folds and scores.
Varnish/spot UV: Provide as a separate spot plate with solid fills; avoid gradients unless approved.

8) White Ink & Special Substrates (If Applicable)

For printing on transparent/dark materials, provide white ink as a separate spot color plate named “WHITE”.
Define whether white is underprint, overprint, or selective.

9) PDF Export Settings (Recommended)

PDF/X-1a or PDF/X-4 compliant.
Embed fonts and include ICC profile if requested.
Images: Do not downsample below 300 dpi.
Bleed: Include 3 mm bleed and crop marks.
No security settings (no password protection).

10) Proofing & Responsibility

Provide a final, approved proof (PDF proof) before printing.
If color accuracy is critical, request a contract proof or press proof.
The printer is not responsible for errors in approved artwork (spelling, layout, overprint, low resolution, missing bleed, incorrect size, etc.).

11) File Naming & Notes

Use clear file names: Client_Project_Specs_Size_Version_Date.pdf
Include job notes: quantity, finished size, paper/substrate, finishing, colors (CMYK/spot), and delivery deadline.