What file format do you need?
Standard file types include: PDF, AI, EPS, and TIFF. We do not advise using CDRs, because exporting Corel Draw files can yield unexpected results such as missing elements and color banding. We can accept them, but we ask that all elements are in CMYK mode. Any CDR file will also need to be paired with a pixel format file (like a JPEG) that shows us the intended look and layout of your graphic.
How can I send you my artwork?
If your file is smaller than 10 MB, you can attach it to an email sent directly to your sales rep. Please be sure to include your project name when sending it over! We’re always working on many things at once, so including a project name helps us keep things straight.
If your file is larger than 10 MB, you can submit it via OLE®’s file upload feature. This sends it straight to our server, and your sales rep will receive an email notification that you’ve uploaded artwork. If you don’t have access to upload files, you can call us at 800-336-1224! We’ll connect you with your rep and can get you set up right away.
Do I need to do anything to my art before you print it?
Please make sure your artwork scales correctly to the size you need, and convert any texts to outlines. Aside from scaling and color correction, we do not alter customer artwork whatsoever. If anything comes up after your submit your file, your sales rep will be in touch!
What if my client changes their size, design, etc.?
If your artwork has changed since it was first submitted, please resubmit your updated artwork with a new file name. We encourage you to include something that clearly differentiates the updated file from the previous one. If you add ‘Revised’ or ‘Version 2’ to the end of your file name, it helps us ensure that the correct artwork will be used for printing.
What is resolution?
Resolution is the level of detail contained in an image. It’s measured with PPI (pixels per inch), and it’s important for scaling purposes. As an image is scaled up, the pixels inside the image also get bigger. If you submit any pixel/raster art (often formatted as JPEG or embedded into vector art), make sure it’s at a high resolution! Low resolution means you’ll lose definition of your image when it’s scaled up.
What colors can you match?
We prefer PMS colors, but you have other options, too! We have several vinyl color libraries on hand, and we also accept hard copies. You can mail us a paint swatch, a cutting from a custom vinyl, or most anything else. We have access to Pantone’s digital library, which allows us to use digital LAB values of every Pantone color. And some programs already have their colors dialed in, so we can use their established Passport® colors. We don’t print any metallic inks, so we are unable to match to metallic swatches from any source.
Can you match to CMYK or RGB values?
We cannot! We can print using the values built into your artwork, but your order will process as-is, which means we aren’t matching any colors. These values can have different outputs on different printers. Without a physical sample to match to, we can’t measure the color at any point of our production process.