COMMON ERRORS WHEN SUBMITTING FILES
Here are five of the most common errors we see when receiving files at Julin Printing. Checking these items when sending files can save time and money in production delays and rework.
Incorrect Color Mode
RGB color mode (red, green, blue) must be converted to CMYK color mode (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) prior to printing. If using Pantone colors, make sure you are consistently using the same one(s) throughout.
Wrong Size
Digital files must be built at the correct final size and final size with bleeds (if applicable).
Bleeds and Artwork or Text Close to Trim
Bleed is a printing term that is used to describe a document which has images or elements that touch the edge of the page and extending beyond the trim edge. Images that are meant to go to the very edge of your design must extend into the bleed area 1/8” (0.125). Text or images that are not meant to get trimmed off the edge of your final printed piece must be 1/4″ (.25) from the edge of your layout. Due to the very small shifting that occurs during cutting, it is NOT recommend that you use a border of less than 1⁄4” (.25) if your design calls for the use of a border.
Low Resolution Images
Graphics files must have a minimum resolution of 300 dpi (dots per inch). Images with a resolution less than 300 dpi will reproduce poorly on press (the image will look fuzzy and/or pixilated). If you took your images from the internet, there is a good chance that they will not contain a high enough resolution for printing. The internet displays images at 72 dpi a great deal less than the 300-dpi suggested for clear printed images! You can check images sizes online prior to placing them in your design or images can be purchase or downloaded from stock image sites assuring you of the proper resolution.
Missing Fonts and Links
Don’t forget to link all your images and fonts! We often receive files but are missing all the “parts”!
Keep these items in mind when preparing your files for print! Call your Julin Rep if you have questions!
