When it comes to printing, file preparation is everything. A properly prepared file ensures a smooth production process, reduces errors, and delivers results that exceed expectations. At Allied, we’ve developed comprehensive guidelines to help you prepare your files like a pro.
File Transfer Made Easy
Allied offers multiple ways to transfer files, ensuring flexibility for every client:
- Upload to Allied’s FTP site: IT will create an account for you if needed.
- Email: Perfect for smaller files under 20MB.
- File transfer services: Use platforms like Dropbox, WeTransfer, or Box for convenience.
- Physical media: CD, DVD, or flash drives are still welcome!
Pro Tip: If you’re using cloud services like Google Drive or OneDrive, double-check that permissions are set for direct downloads.
Choosing the Right File Type
To ensure top-notch printing, Allied accepts most standard graphics formats, with these being preferred:
- Adobe Creative Cloud: Illustrator (.ai) files are the gold standard, but we also accept Photoshop (.psd) and InDesign (.indd).
- Print-ready PDF: Simple, reliable, and preferred for most projects.
- EPS and TIFF files: Great for specific use cases.
Avoid Microsoft Office files whenever possible—they’re not optimized for professional printing and may cause unexpected issues.
Color Management for Accuracy
Color is a critical part of any print project. To get the most accurate results:
- Work in CMYK color mode instead of RGB, as RGB can lead to unexpected shifts.
- For color-critical projects, use PANTONE (PMS) colors. If converting PANTONE to CMYK, refer to a PANTONE Color Bridge to ensure accuracy.
- Specialty colors like fluorescents and metallics require conventional printing methods and cannot be printed digitally.
Pro Tip: Remove any unused colors from your document before submitting it.
General Layout Rules
Your file layout is just as important as your design. Follow these best practices:
- Build layouts in Adobe InDesign when possible. Use Illustrator for vector artwork.
- Ensure files are built to 100% trim size (or at 50% scale for oversized formats).
- Add a 1/8” bleed to all edges to avoid white borders after trimming. For large-format printing, increase this to 1/4”.
- Keep critical elements at least 1/8” inside the trim edge to prevent them from being cut off.
- Clearly label two-sided artwork and ensure dielines are mirrored for proper alignment.
Special Considerations: Dielines and Varnishes
If your project includes dielines or varnishes, here’s what to know:
- Dielines: Must be vector-based and placed on a separate layer. Don’t flatten or rasterize them. Clearly mark any scores, folds, or drill holes.
- Varnishes: Use separate layers for each varnish (e.g., spot gloss or soft touch) and assign unique colors to differentiate between types.
Efficient File Packaging
Properly packaging your files ensures a smoother process:
- Use the “Package” feature in your design software to collect all necessary files, including linked images and fonts.
- Include a reference PDF to show how the final product should appear.
- ZIP your files before submitting to maintain their integrity during transfer.
Well-packaged files allow our prepress team to work efficiently and make necessary adjustments, ensuring a flawless final product.
High-Resolution PDF Settings
For print-ready PDFs, follow these settings:
- Set PDF compatibility to Acrobat 8/9 (PDF 1.7).
- Enable Crop Marks and set bleed to at least 0.125” on all sides.
- Fully embed fonts by setting the “Subset fonts” parameter to 0%.
Using these settings guarantees a high-resolution file that’s ready for production.
Preparing your files properly is the key to successful printing. By following these guidelines, you’ll save time, avoid costly errors, and ensure your project looks exactly as you envisioned. At Allied, we’re committed to making the printing process seamless.
Let’s turn your vision into print perfection—start preparing your files today!
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