We want every print project to be a success for you and your company. In
order to ensure the best quality printing, it's important that your artwork
files have been properly set up for print. Before you place an order, follow
these steps below to make sure your artwork is print-ready. If you have any
questions, please do not hesitate to give us a call at 800-227-7377. We will
be happy to answer any questions you may have and walk you through file
preparation.
1. Set up your file
In your design software (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc), create a
file that is equal to the size of your printed piece. For example,
if you are printing a 5' x 3' banner, you will need to create your file as
60? wide by 36? tall. If you are printing a 6" x 4" postcard, then your file
size will be 6" wide by 4" tall. For small format products (postcards,
flyers, business cards, booklets, etc), make sure your resolution is set to
at least 300 PPI. For large format products (banners, yard signs, backdrop
displays, etc), make sure your resolution is set to at least 100 PPI. This
ensures your artwork will not be pixelated when it prints.
2. Set your bleed & margins
We require at least .125" bleeds for all small format products and 1" bleeds
for all large format products, so be sure to add this bleed when creating
your file. Also, be sure to add margins so that important elements are not
too close to the trim edge. For small format products, add .125" margins.
For large format products, 1" margins are best.
3. Stay within the lines
Extend your artwork to the bleed line, but keep in mind it will be trimmed
to the file size you set up (remember, that’s the same size as your printed
piece). Keep all important elements (particularly text, portraits, and
logos) within the safe area. We don't want a logo trimmed off, or a grommet
added to someone's smile.
4. Save your file
Once your masterpiece is finished, save it. Make sure that your fonts are
embedded. For the best results, we recommend saving your file as a high
resolution PDF (preferred) or TIFF.
A note on color: U.S. Press uses a 4-color, CMYK printing process,
which means our presses print a wide range of hues using cyan, magenta,
yellow, and black ink. For best color accuracy, we ask that you create
and save your files in CMYK mode.
5. Upload your artwork
There are two ways you can upload your artwork. If you are placing an order
online, you can upload your files directly to each product page. If you are
placing an order by phone or email, you can still upload your files online
using our
Send Files
page.
As always, we're here to help. If you need any assistance with your artwork
files, give us a call at 800-227-7377 or email us at info@uspress.com.