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Tips for file preparation


What to send:

We accept files in most commonly used programs for the industry. Always include the page layout document the piece is built in and ALL artwork and fonts used in the document.

We accept files in PDF format if the PDF is generated correctly. Preferences for generating PDFs should be set to embed (not subset) all fonts, and not to downsample any images. Colors should also be set to separate properly before generating a PDF. Remember to check the color setting in all embedded artwork also.

Always include hard copy of what the piece looks like. Include a dummy which shows backup, folding, or other bindery steps. We use that to compare to our output when checking for errors.

Artwork files can be saved in a variety of formats. Acceptable formats include EPS, Tiff, DCS, PDF. Formats such as JPG, GIF, BMP, PICT, etc. generally contain lower resolution data and need to be converted to separate properly.

Always remember to send all fonts used in the document. If you are using Type 1 fonts be sure to include both the screen and printer version of the font.

Tips to save money and time with files at Cooperative Printing:

Size. Always build your document to the final flat size of the piece.

Bleeds. For any file that bleeds, have the bleeding edges extended 1/8 th inch beyond the page size.

Trap. You do not need to set trap in a document. Cooperative Printing can automatically set the most appropriate trap for your job.

Color separation. Make sure that all artwork as well as your layout file is set to print in the specific colors you intend. Delete any unused colors, and set spot and process colors accordingly in both the artwork and the layout. Ensure the color name is spelled EXACTLY the same in the artwork as in the layout.

Convert images. Make sure all process photos are set to CMYK, not RGB. Acceptable color spaces include CMYK, Grayscale, Bitmap, and Duotone or multichannel files saved as DCS.

Check resolution. All photos should be scanned at approximately 300 DPI at 100% of the largest size used. Any linework or bitmaps should be at 2400 DPI for proper printing resolution.

Use appropriate software. Lay out pages in programs designed for page layout, such as Quark XPress, PageMaker, or InDesign. Programs like Microsoft Word are not designed for page layout and will not separate properly without extra work on our part. Use of any programs other than the three above for page layout, will cost more in prep charges for converting files. Use programs like Illustrator, Freehand, or Corel Draw for generating vector artwork. Save the files as EPS documents.