Properly preparing your files for printing is one of the best ways to ensure satisfaction with your project proofs –
correct layout, fonts, etc. Following are some guidelines for general file preparation and for creating ".pdf " files appropriate for printing.

Please consult the manual or Help function of your graphics and layout programs for specific instructions on file and color conversion. And remember, if you ever have any questions regarding your files, contact the Lasting Impressions Prepress Department: 925.686.1509 – we will be happy to guide you through the process.

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR FILE PREPARATION

IMAGES

1. Convert all images and graphic elements to the CMYK or Grayscale Color Model.
   (RGB, Index Color, etc. will result in unexpected and innacurate color reproduction.)
2. Graphic images (Photoshop, etc.) should have a resolution of 300 dpi (dots per inch) at 100% or smaller.
   Enlarging an image above 125% may result in poor reproduction quality (jagged edges, blurry lines, etc.).
   Resolutions lower than 150 dpi are not acceptable for printing.
3. Make sure to include the original of your graphics file along with your print file when forwarding files for printing.
   (See "Fonts & Bundling": below.)
   
   

COLORS

1. We can print up to 6 individual colors. This means that, if your images are in the CMYK Model ("Process" Color) you may have up to 2 additional "Spot" Colors.
2. Remove any unused PANTONE Spot Colors.
3. Convert all PANTONE colors that are not printing as Spot Colors to CMYK.
4. Make sure that all small “black text” (18 pt. and smaller) and black rules are indeed 100% black. Text built with low percentages of CMYK may appear blurry and be difficult to read. If your design has screened text, try using a PANTONE spot color or make the screened values at least 60% and at least one of the other colors 100%.
   
   

FONTS & BUNDLING

1. Because of the wide variation in fonts (i.e. one version of Times Roman may be different from another version), it is important to include all relevant font files when sending any print files other than .pdf.
2. By using the Service Provider packaging function of your layout program you can guarantee that all of the important elements will be transmitted to us.
   Quark XPress: File > Collect for Output...
   (Make sure to check "Layout", "Linked Pictures" and "Printer Fonts" when prompted.)
   Adobe InDesign: File > Package...
   (Make sure to check "Copy Fonts", "Copy Linked Graphics" and "Update Graphic Links" when prompted.)
   
   

BLEEDS AND TRIM

1. BLEED: When images or graphic elements extend to the edge of the page, it is called a "bleed" and requires special handling
   of the files. Make sure that all effected images, graphics and typeset elements extend at least 0.125" past the edge of
   the page.
2. TRIM: To ensure an even trim on non-bleed projects, all images, graphic and typeset elements should be at least 0.125" in from the edge of the page.

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CREATING HIGH RESOLUTION, "PRESS READY" .PDF FILES

A handy way to submit your files for print is to convert them to .pdf files. Following are step by step instructions for converting your files to printer-ready, high-resolution .pdf files.

In the list below, click on a program for instructions on how to convert your files. If you don't see your program in this list, follow the software instructions for creating high resolution .pdf files.

• Quark XPress 7.2
  
• Adobe InDesign CS3
  
• Adobe Illustrator