Pre-Press Requirements

Supported Software:
We have the ability to accept files in Mac and/or PC that are compatible with: Adobe Illustrator CS3, Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, and Adobe PDF (if formatted properly). The preferred file format is Illustrator CS3.

Art files requirements:
Set up art at 100% size to fit die, plus any required bleed (1/16" minimum 1/16" bleed). Indicate final trim size. Files should be set up as spot color (Pantone Coated) or CMYK. Convert RGB files and images to CMYK before submitting files. Gradients must have a minimum of 1% dot in all colors.
Include all fonts or convert the fonts to outline or convert to path. (Converted fonts to outline/path will make text non-editable.) Position all text and graphics to at least 1/16" inside the die line. If the art has a border that bleeds the border must be 1/16" thick. Place graphics (eps or tif) to the art file and provide the images separately in a link folder. Images should be at 100% size in file. Images must be 300 dpi at actual size. Provide a flattened and a layered version of the Photoshop file. UPC codes must meet minimum size requirements for scannability.
Include a color or black/white proof so we can have a visual reference to match with your file. Contact us to discuss trapping and ink density consideration or with any other file setup questions.

Following formats cannot be accepted:
Do not use application styles on text.
Do not embed images/graphics.
Do not trap artwork, unless sending separated art.
Do not design entire label in Photoshop, instead use a vector based application like Illustrator and place in the image.

Printing Requirements:
Minimum line thickness: .5 point.
Minimum font size: 4 point, 6 point for reverse.
Minimum Bleed: 0.0625"
Minimum distance from die cut to graphic elements: 0.0625" (border that bleeds must be 0.0625" wide)

Sending Files:
We can accept your art in any of the formats mentioned above via email. Please stuff or zip large files to minimum size. For very large files that are not convenient to email, simply send a disc (CD or DVD) to our address, Attention: Prepress.

Preflight:
All artwork is subjected to a preflight inspection process to determine if the art is suitable for printing and to identify potential issues, such as size, fonts, colors and graphic usage, to file construction. Art not created to these specifications will result in additional prep charges as well as delays in proofs and print dates. Once all specifications are met, we will supply a PDF proof file via email for you to review and okay to proceed.