To ensure your artwork will print correctly and to avoid any delay, please follow the general file checklist.

Resolution
Also known as DPI (Dots Per Inch) can be described as the number of dots that fit horizontally and vertically into a one-inch space. Generally, the more dots per inch, the more detail captured and the sharper the resulting image. The standard DPI for printing is 300dpi.

Color Mode
Print ready file must be in CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow and black). Conversion from one color mode to another may result in colors to shift. Note that when you are designing on the computer, the monitor is in RGB (red, green and blue).

Sizing (bleeds, safety and cutline)
Bleeds are required in all artwork with an image extending to one of the borders. Add a quarter inch (0.125") to each side to allow for cutting. For a 5.5” x 8.5” catalog with full bleed, each page should be submitted at 5.625” x 8.625”.

Keep in mind that a design with a border can be tricky. Make sure that the border is inside the safe zone and although the cutter is even 1/16th of an inch off, it may cause the card to look off centered. Designers that understand print usually shy from definitive border requirements.

Fonts and Transparency
Fonts and transparencies that are not flattened may result in text or graphics dropping out of the artwork. Submit artwork with fonts, transparencies and other effects flattened to ensure proper printing.