FILE AND JOB SUBMISSION:

• Should I send PDFs or native files?

  PDFs are normally fine, unless we need to help with major revisions - such as color corrections on images, in which case we need the native files. It's also a good idea to send native files for items like pocket folders or die cut pieces - in case we need to tweak things. Be sure to package the files and include all links and fonts when doing so. If sending PDFs, be sure to include trim marks and bleeds.

• What is bleed and how do I add it in my file?

  Bleed is image that extends 1/8" beyond the trim that ensures there is enough image when trimming the finished piece. Adobe programs and Quark will let you extend image 1/8" past your document edge. Your page size is the same as your trim size. Programs like Publisher that don't accommodate bleed require a different approach. Make your page 1/4" larger; both Length and Width to allow 1/8" more image on each side. Then be sure to keep any critical type or images with plenty of clearance from the trim. A 1/4" to 3/8" minimum from the trim line is recommended.

• What color mode should the file be built in?

  Use CMYK color to set up your print file. We will convert RGB color to CMYK for printing using standard conversion values which may not yield the colors you are expecting.

• What if I only have a concept of what I might like, will you be able to design something?

  Yes, if you have all the copy and components - pictures, etc we have staff that can put it all together and make it look really nice and professional.

• What kind of files do you accept?

  Most file types, but if it's not an Adobe product such as InDesign, Photoshop or Illustrator, or Quarkxpress, you're probably better off sending us a pdf of your file. Many programs such as Publisher and Word don't support containing images and fonts as well as the Adobe programs made for commercial print. We also accept PSD, TIF and EPS image files at 300dpi. Some JPG files are acceptable at 300dpi if saved at maximum quality.

• How would you like your files sent?

  You can email your mailing list and smaller print files, but production files should be sent to us here.

GENERAL PRODUCTION:

• How much bleed do I need in my file?

  Your image (bleed) should extend 1/8" beyond your trim. If your page size is 8.5" x 11", your document size should also be 8.5" x 11" but your background image window would be 8.75" x 11.25" if you have a full bleed background image. Some programs will not let you do this in which case you'll need to make your document size larger and preferably provide to us a pdf of your file because this would indicate you're using a program that isn't a commercial print program that works well congaing images and fonts.

• Do you only work with companies or will you also do work for individuals (wedding invites, graduation announcements, etc)?

  While we mainly work directly with companies, we also work with individuals for things such and invites and announcements etc. With our digital presses we can provide some very competitive pricing!

• When can I get my job?

  Great question. Since almost everything we produce is unique/custom - and because our workload fluctuates, it can be challenging to predict. We're typically juggling literally hundreds of projects each day. Normally, we will give a timeline based on PROOF APPROVAL. This is because we cannot control the amount of time it may take to get approval after proofs are generated. Sometimes the approval comes immediately, while other times there are days/weeks worth of revisions requested. We are often put in the position of rushing certain steps, which can be risky. However, fear not...we usually can provide a good general timeline. Barring things like equipment failure or inclement weather, we're normally good at staying within the timeline. It's also very important to let us know if your project is for an event or something that cannot be moved.

• I received a shipping notification, does that mean my job will be here soon?

  Unless special arrangements have been made, all routes go out by 2:00 pm. If you see a shipping notification in the mid to late afternoon, it will most likely go out the next morning on one of the first routes. Depending on where you are on the route, you may see a shipping notification at 3pm and not see your product until late the next morning. If you communicate with us about a specific time your deliver is needed, we can often accommodate your request.

• What Options and Templates do you have?

  We can provide you with a template for most all envelopes, brochures, presentation folders, booklets, etc. for print production as well as die cutting.

COLOR AND PROOFING:

• Why is the color on my project different than my monitor and/or the printouts we do here?

  Monitors and desktop printers are impossible to completely calibrate for accurate color representation. Monitors live in an RGB color space — print is CMYK. (4-color process) — And desktop printers simply don't have the ability to reproduce tightly calibrated color standards. We use sophisticated and expensive calibration tools to keep our proofing devices and presses in sync.

• I printed out the proofs you sent me, and there are some funky things happening... why?

  Desktop printers have different RIPs (Raster Image Processing) than high-end proofing devices. Do not trust your desktop printer for proofing. If hardcopy proof is required, we can furnish one.

• On the pdf proof you sent me it looks like you added an outline to the text. What does that mean?

  Your overprint settings may not be correct in Acrobat Reader. Go to "Preferences" in Acrobat Reader and see the setting at the bottom: Select "Always" for overprint preview.

• Why am I being charged for alts when I did the changes?

  Good question! When we receive new files that have been altered (once a project has been processed and proofed), we need to re-process and re-proof to ensure everything is OK. We charge for the amount of time this takes. We're sometimes asked, "Don't you build in any extra to cover this?"... The answer is "no". We don't want to quote or charge for something which may not be needed. We are happy to give some general costs for additional time and proofing up front if necessary.

• Do I need a proof on this small change? Just go to press...

  Trust us, yes you do! Any time a file is worked on and re-saved, anything can happen! Copy can move, images can fail to link, etc., etc... Proofing is critical each and every time a file is altered and processed.

PAPER, INK & FINISHES:

• What is the difference between varnish and aqueous coating?

  Both varnish and aqueous coating can add style and offer additional protection to your printed piece. Each coating is available in different finishes ranging from matte to gloss.
  
  Varnish is best described as an oil based, clear ink. It can be applied as a flood, but more commonly used in detailed spot applications by using a printing plate to define where the clear varnish prints. Similar to ink, varnish requires additional drying time and is generally more expensive than aqueous.
  
  Aqueous is a more durable water-based coating, generally used in overall flood applications. It can be used for less intricate spot applications by cutting a blanket. It dries nearly as soon as it delivers, sealing in wet ink and allowing us to work with the sheet right off the press. Aqueous is recommended for all projects that require extra durability and ones that require die-cutting, converting or additional bindery work as it helps protect the sheet from scuffing.

• What are my paper options and why is 80lb cover thicker than 80lb text?

  80lb cover is close to twice as thick as 80lb text because the basis for weight for cover is 500 20"x26" sheets and 80lb text is 500 25"x38" sheets.

• Does using paper affect our environment?

  More trees are planted than are taken for lumber and paper, so we actually have more trees in the U.S. than we had 50 and 100 years ago!