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Artwork Specifications & Guide to File Formats

When preparing artwork for printing, it's crucial to follow specific file specifications to ensure the best possible print quality. Following these specifications helps to minimize errors and ensures a smooth printing process with high-quality results.

If you have questions, please contact your Instore Design Display Project Manager, for assistance.

  1. File Format:

    • Preferred formats are typically high-resolution PDF (Portable Document Format) or TIFF (Tagged Image File Format).
    • Ensure that the file is in CMYK color mode for full-color printing. RGB is more suitable for screens.
    • To learn more about file types, download the Instore Design Display Guide to File Formats.

  2. Resolution:

    • Images and graphics should have a minimum resolution of 300 dots per inch (DPI) to ensure sharp and clear prints.
    • Low-resolution images can result in pixelation and a loss of print quality.

  3. Color Mode:

    • Use CMYK color mode for full-color printing. This mode represents the four color channels: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black.
    • Convert any spot colors to process colors, unless otherwise specified.
    bleed-trim-safearea

  4. Bleed:

    • Include a bleed area, typically 1/8 inch (0.125 inches) or 3 mm, to account for slight variations in the printing and cutting process.
    • Extend any background colors or images that touch the edge of the document into the bleed area.

  5. Trim Marks:

    • Add trim marks to indicate where the final piece will be cut. These marks help ensure accurate cutting and alignment.

  6. Safe Area:

    • Keep important text and graphics within a safe zone, which is an area at least 1/8 inch (0.125 inches) or 3 mm away from the trim edge.
    • This prevents essential content from being accidentally trimmed during the printing process.

  7. Fonts:

    • Embed or outline all fonts to ensure that the text appears correctly, even if the printing facility doesn't have the specific fonts installed.

  8. Layers:

    • Flatten all layers before saving the file to eliminate any potential issues with layer visibility or transparency.
  9. Embedded vs Linked Images:

    • Embedded images are physically part of the document file. They are stored within the file itself.

      • If your document includes linked images, make sure to provide the linked image files along with the main document file.
      • Check that the linked images are in the correct color mode (CMYK) and resolution.

        Linked images are external files that the document references. 

  10. File Naming:

    • Use a clear and descriptive file name that includes the project name, version number, and any other relevant information.
    overprinting-vs-knockout

  11. Check for Overprints:

    • Overprinting: is when colors are printed over each other. This creates new colors as the colors are blended.
    • Knockout: is when you cut out overlapping colors from the lower layers so that you only print with the intented colors.
    • Make sure that there are no unintentional overprints that may affect the final print. Check the settings for transparency and blending modes.

  12. Check Image Compression:

    • Avoid excessive image compression, as it can lead to a loss of detail and quality in the printed output.

  13. Proofing:

    • Before finalizing the artwork, obtain and review a proof from the printing service to ensure that colors, layout, and content appear as intended.
To learn more about file types, download the Instore Design Display Guide to File Formats.