FAQs
FAQ TOPICS
Offset printing is a widely used printing technique that involves transferring ink from a plate to a rubber blanket, and then onto the printing surface. Here's how it works:
- Prepress: First, a digital or physical copy of the image or text is created, which is then transferred onto a plate made of aluminum, which is coated with a photosensitive emulsion.
- Plate Making: The plate is exposed to light, which hardens the emulsion in the areas where the image or text is present. The plate is then developed, which removes the unexposed emulsion, leaving behind a raised image or text on the plate.
- Ink Application: The plate is mounted onto the printing press, and ink is applied to it. The ink adheres to the raised image areas on the plate, but not to the non-image areas, which are kept wet by a water or dampening system.
- Printing: The plate comes in contact with a rubber blanket, which is then pressed against the paper or other substrate, transferring the ink onto the surface.
- Finishing: After printing, the ink is allowed to dry, and any necessary finishing such as cutting, binding, or folding is performed.
Offset printing works by using the principle that oil-based ink and water-based dampening system do not mix. This allows for precise and high-quality printing on a variety of surfaces, including paper, cardboard, and plastic. It is a popular choice for high-volume printing jobs such as books, magazines, and catalogs, as well as for producing high-quality prints of fine art and photography.
Digital printing is a printing technique that involves directly printing an image or document from a digital file onto the printing surface, without the need for physical plates or rollers. Here's how it works:
- Prepress: First, a digital file of the image or text is created using software such as Adobe Photoshop or InDesign. The file is then sent to the digital printing press.
- Ink Application: The digital printing press uses a combination of toner or ink cartridges and a printing drum or belt to apply the ink or toner directly onto the printing surface. The ink or toner is applied in tiny dots that are combined to create the image or text.
- Printing: The printing surface is fed through the digital printing press, which applies the ink or toner to the surface in a single pass. Unlike offset printing, there is no need for separate plates or rollers for each color, as the digital printing press can apply multiple colors in a single pass.
- Finishing: After printing, the ink or toner is allowed to dry, and any necessary finishing such as cutting, binding, or folding is performed.
Digital printing is a popular choice for short-run printing jobs, such as business cards, brochures, flyers, and other marketing materials. It offers fast turnaround times, high-quality prints, and the ability to print variable data, such as personalized names or addresses. Digital printing is also more environmentally friendly than traditional printing methods, as it generates less waste and uses less ink.
Large format printing is a printing technique used to create large-scale prints, typically for use in signage, banners, posters, and other promotional materials. Here's how it works:
- Prepress: First, a digital file of the image or text is created using software such as Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. The file is then sent to the large format printer.
- Ink Application: Large format printers use either inkjet or dye-sublimation technology to apply the ink to the printing surface. Inkjet printers use tiny droplets of ink that are sprayed onto the surface, while dye-sublimation printers use heat to transfer dye onto the surface.
- Printing: The printing surface is fed through the large format printer, which applies the ink or dye in a single pass. Large format printers can handle a wide variety of materials, including paper, vinyl, canvas, and fabric.
- Finishing: After printing, the large format print may be laminated or mounted onto a backing board to protect it and make it more durable.
Large format printing allows for the creation of eye-catching and highly visible prints, making it an effective advertising tool for businesses and organizations. It offers the ability to print on a wide range of materials and can produce prints up to several meters in size. Large format printing is used in a variety of industries, including retail, hospitality, sports and entertainment, and more.
- Offset printing: a traditional printing method that involves transferring ink from a plate to a rubber blanket and then onto the printing surface.
- Digital printing: a modern printing method that involves directly printing an image or document from a digital file onto the printing surface without the need for physical plates or rollers.
- Letterpress printing: a printing method that involves pressing a raised image or text onto the printing surface using a printing press.
- Flexographic printing: a printing method that uses flexible printing plates and a rotary press to print on a variety of substrates such as paper, plastic, and metal.
- Gravure printing: a printing method that uses engraved cylinders to transfer ink onto the printing surface.
- Screen printing: a printing method that involves pressing ink through a stencil onto the printing surface using a mesh screen.
- Inkjet printing: a printing method that uses tiny droplets of ink to create an image or text on the printing surface.
- Dye-sublimation printing: a printing method that uses heat to transfer dye onto the printing surface, typically used for printing on fabrics or other materials.
- Large format printing: a printing method used to create large-scale prints for use in signage, banners, and other promotional materials.
- 3D printing: a printing method that uses computer-controlled machines to create three-dimensional objects by layering materials such as plastics, metals, and ceramics.
- Each type of printing has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different applications and industries.
Each type of printing has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different applications and industries.
- Business Cards: A printed business card is a small but effective marketing tool that provides contact information to potential clients and partners.
- Brochures: Printed brochures are used to provide detailed information about a company, product, or service. They can be handed out at events, trade shows, or sent via mail.
- Flyers: Printed flyers are an effective way to promote a product, service, or event. They can be distributed in high-traffic areas or sent via mail.
- Posters: Printed posters are used to advertise events, products, or services. They are typically displayed in public spaces, such as bus stops, train stations, or on billboards.
- Banners: Printed banners are used for advertising at events, trade shows, or on the outside of a building. They can be customized in size and shape and are typically made from durable materials.
- Catalogs: Printed catalogs are used to showcase a company's products or services. They are typically mailed to customers or distributed at trade shows.
- Packaging: Printed packaging is used to promote a product and provide information about the contents. It can be customized with logos, colors, and graphics to make it stand out on the shelf.
- Stationery: Printed stationery includes letterheads, envelopes, and notepads. They are typically used for business correspondence and can help establish a professional brand image.
- Magazines: Printed magazines are used to provide information on specific topics or interests. They can be distributed via mail, newsstands, or subscriptions.
- Books: Printed books are still in demand for both fiction and non-fiction titles. They are typically sold through bookstores, online retailers, or direct sales.
Overall, printed products remain an important part of marketing and communications, offering a tangible and effective way to promote a company or product.
The future of printing is likely to involve a continued shift towards digital technologies and automation. Here are some potential trends and developments that may shape the future of printing:
- 3D Printing: The market for 3D printing is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, as the technology becomes more accessible and affordable. This could lead to the widespread adoption of 3D printing for both industrial and personal use, with applications in areas such as product design, healthcare, and education.
- Sustainability: There is a growing awareness of the environmental impact of printing, and there is likely to be increased demand for sustainable printing practices and materials. This could include the use of recycled paper, biodegradable ink, and energy-efficient printing processes.
- Automation: As technology advances, printing processes are likely to become increasingly automated, with greater use of robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. This could lead to faster, more efficient printing processes, with reduced costs and fewer errors.
- Personalization: There is increasing demand for personalized printing, with customers looking for unique and customized products. This could involve the use of variable data printing and other digital technologies to create highly personalized printed products.
- Augmented Reality: Augmented reality technology has the potential to transform the printing industry, allowing printed materials to be enhanced with digital content and interactivity. This could lead to new applications in areas such as advertising, education, and entertainment.
Overall, the future of printing is likely to involve a continued focus on digital technologies and innovation, with a greater emphasis on sustainability, personalization, and automation.
A vector file is a type of digital image file that is created using mathematical equations to represent lines, shapes, and curves. Unlike raster images, which are made up of pixels, vector files are resolution-independent, meaning they can be scaled up or down without losing quality or becoming pixelated.
Vector files are commonly used in graphic design and illustration, as they are ideal for creating logos, icons, and other types of graphics that need to be resized frequently. Some common types of vector files include Adobe Illustrator files (AI), Encapsulated PostScript files (EPS), and Scalable Vector Graphics files (SVG). These file formats can be opened and edited using specialized software such as Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape.
A raster file, also known as a bitmap image, is a digital image file that is made up of a grid of pixels, each with a specific color value. Each pixel is assigned a color value based on its position in the grid, which creates the overall image
Raster files are commonly used for photographs and digital artwork that contains complex color gradients, shading, and other fine details. Examples of raster file formats include JPEG, PNG, BMP, and TIFF.
One limitation of raster files is that they are resolution-dependent, which means that the quality of the image is directly tied to the resolution, or the number of pixels per inch (PPI), a good printable resolution is 300 DPI. If a raster image is scaled up, the pixels become more visible, which can result in a loss of quality and sharpness. This is why raster images are not always suitable for large-format printing or other applications that require high-quality, scalable graphics.
A PDF (Portable Document Format) file can contain both vector and raster elements, depending on how the file was created.
PDF files are primarily designed for document sharing and can contain a range of elements, including text, images, and graphics. If the graphic elements in the PDF were created using vector-based software such as Adobe Illustrator, then those elements will remain vector-based and scalable within the PDF. This means that they can be enlarged or reduced without losing quality.
However, if the graphic elements in the PDF were created using raster-based software such as Adobe Photoshop, then those elements will be raster-based and resolution-dependent. This means that they will lose quality if scaled up beyond their original size.
So, in summary, a PDF file can contain both vector and raster elements, depending on how the file was created and what type of graphic elements it contains.
CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (black), which are the four primary colors used in most color printing processes. A CMYK file is a digital image file that uses this color model to represent colors that will be printed using ink on paper or other substrates
CMYK files are used in professional printing, such as offset printing or digital printing, to create high-quality printed materials such as brochures, flyers, and business cards. The colors in a CMYK file are created by mixing various percentages of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks.
It is important to note that CMYK colors are not the same as RGB (Red, Green, Blue) colors, which are used for digital displays such as computer monitors and mobile devices. RGB colors can look very different when printed in CMYK, which is why it is important to convert digital images from RGB to CMYK before printing them.
Most professional design software, such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, have options to convert an image from RGB to CMYK mode to ensure that the colors are accurately represented in the final printed product.
An RGB (Red, Green, Blue) file is a digital image file that uses the RGB color model to represent colors on a digital display such as a computer monitor or mobile device.
RGB is an additive color model, meaning that colors are created by adding different amounts of red, green, and blue light together. This means that the more red, green, and blue light that is added together, the brighter and more vibrant the resulting color will be.
RGB files are commonly used for digital media such as websites, social media graphics, and digital advertising. Most digital devices, including computer monitors, televisions, and mobile devices, use the RGB color model to display images.
It is important to note that RGB colors are not the same as CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key) colors, which are used for printing. When an RGB file is printed, it needs to be converted to CMYK to ensure that the printed colors accurately match the digital colors.
It is advisable to save your file as a PDF format. However, you can also send it in JPG, JPEG, TIF, TIFF, EPS, or PNG formats.
To expedite the turnaround time, we strongly recommend sending PDF files with embedded or outlined fonts with no transparency. It is also essential to flatten your files before uploading. PDFs are easier to handle and manipulate than other formats.
When designing jobs for clear substrates such as clear vinyl or clear acrylic with transparent background, we suggest using vector files such as EPS or PDF formats, with a resolution of 300 DPI or higher. It is best to use black (100% K) for fine lines and text smaller than 9pt. Die lines can be part of the design as long as they are on its own layer name “Cut”.
When sending a print job, it's generally recommended to convert your content from RGB to CMYK color mode. This is because RGB and CMYK represent colors differently, and printing devices use CMYK inks to reproduce colors on paper.
RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is an additive color model primarily used for electronic displays. It has a wider color gamut and can produce vibrant and bright colors that are not achievable in CMYK. However, when you send an RGB file for printing without conversion, the printing device needs to convert it to CMYK. This conversion can result in color shifts, and some bright RGB colors may not be accurately reproduced in CMYK.
On the other hand, CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) is a subtractive color model designed for printing. Colors in CMYK are created by subtracting varying amounts of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks from white paper. Printing devices, such as printers and presses, typically use CMYK inks.
Converting your content to CMYK before sending it for print allows you to preview how the colors will look in the printed output. It helps you identify any potential color shifts or inconsistencies and make necessary adjustments. By working in the CMYK color space, you can ensure that the printed result closely matches your expectations.
In summary, converting your print job to CMYK ensures that the colors are optimized for printing and minimizes the chances of unexpected color shifts. It allows you to have better control over the final printed output and achieve more accurate color reproduction.
Files with low resolution may either be printed as they are or put on hold until we receive new files. In either case, it could delay your turnaround time. We only accept 300 dpi files and no less. For large format jobs that are beyond the size of design software, you can design at scale and send to us with a note on scale proportion.
To ensure a polished and high-quality final product, bleed should extend beyond the cut-line at least .125” and will be trimmed during the final cutting phase. Bleed is necessary when the image needs to extend all the way to the edge.
It's important to keep all text and important objects at least 0.25" inside the cut-line.
For Brochures, Booklets, Calendars, Letter Heads, Business Cards, the recommended bleed is 0.125" all around. For Postcards, Club Flyers, Digital orders, Rack Cards, Sell Sheets, Bookmarks, Door Hangers, Stickers and table tents, we run the jobs at the desire size and then trim an extra 1/16” all around, we do this to save you money and to keep the cost down.
When you choose a size from the dropdown for this product, you're essentially reserving that space on the print sheet. If you opt for a 4x6 size for example, please be aware that the final flyer will be slightly smaller due to the standard 1/16" trimming on all sides. In the event that a different size is sent than what you've selected, please note that the image may be adjusted to fit the chosen space or centered based on your suggested size. Following this adjustment, a minor 1/16" standard trim will be applied as needed.
If you need a true size, we recommend getting a custom quote. If you're using Large format Products, you don’t need to send bleeds, we add bleed for large format automatically.
While we generally discourage the use of borders in designs, if you insist on including them, it's important to be aware of a potential issue. If the border is positioned close to the cutline, there is a chance that it might appear slightly off-center when trimmed. To mitigate this risk, we suggest making your borders at least 1/4" thick. This extra width will provide us with ample room for cutting, ensuring a more accurate alignment with the intended design.
Files submitted are printed HEAD to HEAD as-is based off your files.
To ensure the desired orientation of your final product, please ensure that your files are set up with the correct head-to-head printing arrangement. Additionally, both front and back files should be aligned either vertically or horizontally on both sides.
Please note that for files that are not properly set up, we will use our best judgment, and we cannot be held responsible for any improper rotation.
Ensure that you arrange your files in a manner that, when printed with both sides facing each other, the end result will display the desired content. Additionally, ensure that the front and back files are configured consistently, either with both sides arranged vertically or both sides arranged horizontally.
If you desire the back file to be upside down, kindly submit your artwork following the format depicted below.
If you have a fold-over or greeting card, kindly submit your artwork in the manner depicted.
Please refrain from including additional files such as proofs or samples when submitting artwork for printing, as there is a risk of them being mistakenly printed. Only send the specific files that you intend to have printed.
Please note that we cannot be held responsible for any unintended printing of such files. Unless explicitly requested by one of our employees, please do not send any files that you do not wish to be printed.
Our system is specifically designed to efficiently handle PDF files by automatically splitting the pages as required. Once you reach the upload page, the system will seamlessly take your multi-page PDF and perform an automatic split.
For jpg, tif, or any other formats, files must be submitted individually as shown below.
To set up a Spot UV job, it is important to include both a regular print file and a Spot UV mask file. The Spot UV mask file serves the purpose of indicating the areas where the UV coating should be applied.
For optimal quality, we recommend creating mask files using vector-based programs like Illustrator or CorelDRAW.
When indicating the areas for UV coating, please use solid 100% black (K) color. Avoid using shadows, glows, or grayscale images. Any white areas on the template will signify no UV coating.
To avoid the issue of blues appearing as purple in your design, it is crucial to maintain a minimum difference of 20% between the Cyan and Magenta values used.
100% C 80% M 0% Y 0% K
ON SCREEN
AFTER PRINTING
In the CMYK spectrum, blue and purple are closely related. To prevent the color from shifting towards purple, it is important to use a minimal amount of magenta when employing high levels of cyan.
When preparing a PDF file for print, it is important to follow these guidelines for proper exporting:
- Use the [PDF/X-1a:2001] in your PDF export settings. This ensures that the file contains all the necessary information and settings for optimal print reproduction.
- Include bleed and crop marks: If your design extends to the edge of the page, include a bleed area (usually 3mm or 0.125 inches) to allow for trimming. Enable the option to include crop marks to indicate where the file should be cut.
- Embed fonts: To ensure accurate font reproduction, embed all fonts used in your document. This ensures that the printer has access to the necessary font data.
- Maintain high-resolution images: Ensure that all images included in the PDF are of high resolution (at least 300 dpi) to avoid pixelation or loss of detail in the print output.
- Verify color settings: Double-check that the color profile used in your PDF is appropriate for print. Typically, CMYK is the recommended color mode for print materials.
- Check for transparency flattening: If your design contains transparent elements, ensure that the transparency is properly flattened to prevent unexpected results during printing. Consult your design software's documentation for guidance on flattening transparency.
- Proofread and review: Before exporting the PDF, thoroughly review the document to ensure that all elements, text, images, and layout appear as intended.
By following these steps, you can export a PDF file that is optimized for printing and minimizes the risk of errors or issues during the printing process.
Step 1 - General
Step 2- Compression
Step 3 - Marks and Bleeds
Step 4 - Output
Step 5 - Advanced
- Convert the image to grayscale: Use an image editing software such as Photoshop to convert the image to grayscale. This will remove any color information and leave only shades of gray.
- Change the document color mode to CMYK: If the document is not already in CMYK color mode, convert it to CMYK to ensure color consistency throughout the document.
- Copy and paste the grayscale image into the CMYK document: After converting the image to grayscale, copy it and paste it into the CMYK document at the desired location.
- Ensure the image is in grayscale mode within the CMYK document: Double-check that the pasted grayscale image is still in grayscale mode within the CMYK document. This ensures that it does not inherit any color information from the CMYK color space.
- Save the document: Save the CMYK document with the grayscale image included, ensuring that it is in a format compatible with your intended use (such as PDF, TIFF, or JPEG).
By following these steps, you can incorporate a grayscale image into a CMYK document while maintaining the desired grayscale appearance without any unwanted color shifts.
Rich black refers to a deeper and darker black color that is achieved by adding additional ink colors to the standard black (K) in the CMYK color model. It results in a more visually appealing and solid black appearance, especially when used in large areas or text.
To create rich black, follow these guidelines:
- Use a mixture of ink colors: Instead of using only 100% black (K), incorporate small amounts of other ink colors, such as Cyan (C), Magenta (M), and Yellow (Y). This combination enhances the richness and depth of the black color.
- Recommended rich black values: A common formula for rich black is 50% Cyan (C), 40% Magenta (M), 40% Yellow (Y), and 100% Black (K). However, these values can vary depending on the desired result and printing specifications. Consult your print provider or design guidelines for the recommended rich black values.
- Apply rich black to large areas or text: Utilize rich black for large black areas or text elements in your design to achieve a solid and visually appealing black appearance.
Be mindful of small text and fine details: Avoid using rich black for small text or fine details, as the additional ink coverage can lead to readability issues. Stick to 100% black (K) for such elements.
Occasionally, business card edges may experience cracking when there are high ink values, particularly in dark colors. This issue typically affects only a small number of cards within a print run. To mitigate this problem, it is advisable to utilize lighter colors whenever possible. However, if dark colors are necessary, minimize the amount of ink used to reduce the likelihood of cracking.
Banding can be attributed to various factors, including the program used for exporting (e.g., Indesign or Corel), as well as excessive gradient steps in a confined area, such as transitioning from a very light color to a dark color.
To avoid banding, it is important to review your digital files before submission. When employing gradients, ensure that there is sufficient space for a smooth transition to occur, allowing for a more seamless appearance without noticeable bands.
When a job undergoes UV coating, scoring, and folding, it is common for cracks to develop. Over time, these cracks may expand, potentially causing the ink to chip off.
It is important to note that cracking is a normal occurrence when coated jobs are scored and folded, even if UV coating is not applied. While choosing to omit UV coating may offer some improvement, it may not entirely prevent cracking. As the job is subjected to repeated use and folding, the likelihood of cracking increases.
Understanding that cracking is an inherent characteristic of the process will help set appropriate expectations for the finished product.
Pantone colors can have three distinct impacts on your printed job:
The first impact occurs when object effects, like shadows or glows, are applied on top of Pantone colors. In such cases, transparency issues may arise during the printing process. To mitigate this, it is recommended to convert all Pantone colors to CMYK before submitting your order.
The second impact arises when transparent images are used in conjunction with Pantone colors. Care should be taken to ensure compatibility and avoid any unforeseen complications.
The final impact pertains to the color conversion between Pantone colors and CMYK. When using Pantone colors in a job intended for CMYK printing, undesired color outcomes can arise. Consequently, if your job includes Pantone colors, the conversion to CMYK will alter the original Pantone color. Prior to submitting your order, ensure that all Pantone colors have been appropriately converted to CMYK.
By proactively addressing these considerations and preparing your files accordingly, you can help ensure the desired color results in your printed materials.
- Open the image file: Launch Photoshop and open the large dimension file you want to convert.
- Go to "Image Size": Click on the "Image" menu at the top and select "Image Size." A dialog box will appear.
- Uncheck "Resample": In the Image Size dialog box, make sure the "Resample" checkbox is unchecked. This ensures that you maintain the original pixel dimensions of the image and prevent any loss of resolution.
- Adjust the output dimensions: In the Image Size dialog box, you can specify the desired output dimensions for your image. You can enter the desired width and height in inches, centimeters, pixels, or any other unit of measurement. Make sure the dimensions you enter are within the maximum limit of Photoshop (300,000 pixels).
- Check the resolution: While maintaining the same pixel dimensions, ensure that the resolution remains unchanged or matches the required output resolution. If necessary, adjust the resolution value to the desired output resolution.
- Select the interpolation method: Photoshop provides several interpolation methods for resizing images. The default method is usually "Automatic." However, if you want to control the interpolation, you can select a different method from the drop-down menu. Bicubic interpolation tends to be a good choice for most situations.
- Preview and apply the changes: Before clicking "OK," take a moment to preview the image and confirm that the dimensions and resolution are as desired. If everything looks good, click "OK" to apply the changes.
By following these steps and unchecking the "Resample" option, you can adjust the dimensions and resolution of your image without losing any pixel data or reducing the overall image quality.
- Visit our ticketing system by clicking on the Submit a Ticket link on the upper right and of the page. Make sure to provide all the necessary information and be as descriptive as possible.
- Allow us 2-3 business days to review your request.
- In some cases we ask that you return the product. This will be determined on a case by case basis. Failure to do so will result in your claim being rejected.Please note that you have a 30-day window to complete this process.
* Please note that you have a 30-day window to complete this process.
As a service, we do offer shrink wrapping.
No, please utilize our template for designing the artwork, but make sure to remove any guides or crop marks. If a template is provided as a layer within the artwork, it will be printed.
When creating a Dieline for a custom shape design, you have the flexibility to incorporate intricate cuts to make your design more interesting and creative.
Similar to Spot UV masks or white spot mask, it is important to prepare a separate layer alongside your artwork files. In the layer, the color Black, Magenta or Cyan is used to indicate where the cutline, drill or crease will be applied.
To ensure proper alignment during printing, it is crucial to create the cut layer in the same dimensions as your color art file and over impose it on your design to make sure everything lines up.
Please note that the cut layer must be created in vector format and saved as EPS or PDF. Cut layers CAN NOT be a raster file. So no jpg, tiff, jpeg or png is allowed for this.
Instructions for Illustrator:
Create strokes using vector paths/shapes to designate the specific regions where the cut line will be applied.
Once the black stroked shape using vector paths/shapes is created, create a brand new Swatch and use the following info to fill up these strokes with this color.
- Swatch Name: Cut
- Color Type: Spot Color
- Color Mode: CMYK
- Color Values: C 0% M 0% Y 0% K 100%
If you decide to do a drill hole on your sign, using your stroked shape or vector paths/shapes, create a brand new Swatch and use the following info to fill up these strokes with this color.
- Swatch Name: Drill
- Color Type: Spot Color
- Color Mode: CMYK
- Color Values: C 0% M 100% Y 0% K 0%
If you decide to do a Crease on your sign, using your stroked shape or vector paths/shapes, create a brand new Swatch and use the following info to fill up these strokes with this color.
- Swatch Name: Crease
- Color Type: Spot Color
- Color Mode: CMYK
- Color Values: C 100% M 0% Y 0% K 0%
Last step is to click on the color outlines you created, and go to Window>Attributes and select the option of Overprint Strokes. This will guaranteed that the shape will show on the final file as a separate layer.
To verify this process is working as intended, you can turn on the option under the View menu of Overprint Preview. You should see a CMYK image with a darker tone in the area of the stroke.
Summary:
- The design will be cut exactly where the cut line is placed.
- There is a limitation on the amount of custom cutting allowed per job, which is determined by the combined length of all sides of the sign. If the cut file exceeds this limit, it will be rejected, and a custom quote will be provided. For example, if you pick a 12x18 sign, your maximum linear length of custom cutting you are allowed is 12+12+18+18= 60 linear inches. If your cut file, exceeds that 60 linear inches, it will be rejected and you will have to custom quote the order.
- Multiple types of finishing (cut, drill, crease) can be included in a single file.
- Ensure that the stroke is set to overprint and the color swatch is a Spot Color. Failure to do so may result in the cut line being printed or causing issues with CMYK printing like white lines.
In the realm of design, a "knockout" is a method wherein one graphic element or text is positioned atop another, and the upper element is crafted by excising or "knocking out" a segment of the underlying element. This technique is frequently employed to fashion captivating visual effects and accentuate disparities within the design.
For instance, if you possess a solid background color and aim to showcase text upon it, employing a knockout effect renders the text seemingly transparent, thus unveiling the background hue beneath the text's placement. This artistic approach contributes depth and visual allure to design compositions, particularly in the creation of logos, posters, and various graphic materials.
Additionally, it's worth noting that when using white type as a knockout element, it's advisable for the text to be at least 7 points in size. This ensures an enhanced readability experience for viewers.
Understanding Job Statuses in Our Workflow:
- Order Received: We have received your order, but it hasn't been processed yet. This is the perfect opportunity to request a cancellation if needed.
- Prepress: Your job is prepared and ready to be plated.
- On Hold: This status indicates issues with your art files, payment, or awaiting approval.
- Awaiting Artwork: We have identified issues with your order and require new files. Please upload the revised files using the link we provided, rather than adding them to the order notes.
- Awaiting Proof Approval: Either you requested a proof or we determined it necessary based on your order. We await your approval before proceeding.
- Cancellation Request: Use this status to request order cancellation from our team.
- Proof Approved: This status is triggered when you approve a proof request or when you upload your artwork. The preview allows you to confirm size, color, and cutting specifications. By submitting your order, you are giving your approval.
- Plated: Your job has been transferred onto Printing Plates.
- On Press: Your job is currently being printed.
- Off Press: Your job has been successfully printed.
- Cutting: Your job is in our cutting department.
- Finished Cutting: Cutting for your job is complete.
- Bindery: Your job is in the bindery department.
- Bindery Complete: Bindery work for your job is done.
- Quality Control Failed: We found that the final product didn't meet our quality standards. We will expedite the reprint process.
- Canceled: Your order was canceled at your request.
- Refunded: Your order was refunded at your request.
- Recycled: Your order was recycled as per your request.
- Staging: Your job is being prepared for pickup, but not yet ready. If you're picking up, you can start heading to the shop at this point.
- OK to Pickup: Your job is now ready for pickup. Always wait for this status change before coming to pick up.
- Picked Up: Your job has been collected.
- Ready to Ship: Your job is waiting for labels or processing by our shipping staff.
- Shipped: Your job has been dispatched. Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to be available from FedEx or your chosen carrier.
- Completed: Your order has been shipped or picked up, and all associated work is finished
We would like to bring to your attention that due to the nature of the gang run printing process, we cannot guarantee exact color accuracy in your printed materials. Gang run printing involves combining multiple print jobs on a single press sheet to optimize cost-effectiveness. While we take every effort to maintain color consistency, there are inherent limitations to this process that may result in slight color variations.
Factors that can contribute to color variations in gang run printing include but are not limited to:
- Paper Stock: Different paper types and finishes can affect how ink is absorbed, leading to variations in color rendition.
- Ink Saturation: The ink saturation level may vary across different portions of the press sheet, impacting color intensity.
- Print Environment: Environmental conditions in the print shop, such as humidity and temperature, can influence color drying and adherence.
- Color Calibration: While we use industry-standard color profiles, variations in color calibration between different printing runs may occur.
We understand the importance of color accuracy in your print materials and strive to minimize variations as much as possible. However, it's essential to be aware that slight color differences may exist between different print runs or between the digital proof and the final printed product.
To mitigate color discrepancies, we recommend the following:
- Requesting a hard copy proof before full production to assess color accuracy.
- Ensuring that your artwork is correctly prepared, including using the appropriate color profiles and Pantone colors where necessary.
- Communicating any specific color expectations or requirements to our team before printing.
While we cannot guarantee exact color matches in gang run printing, we are committed to delivering high-quality printed materials that meet industry standards. If you have any concerns about color accuracy, please don't hesitate to discuss them with our team, and we will work with you to find the best possible solution.
Yes. Below is a chart illustrating our packaging information (Weight, Length, Width and height) of a box based on size and paper type.
Offset printing is a widely used printing technique that involves transferring ink from a plate to a rubber blanket, and then onto the printing surface. Here's how it works:
- Prepress: First, a digital or physical copy of the image or text is created, which is then transferred onto a plate made of aluminum, which is coated with a photosensitive emulsion.
- Plate Making: The plate is exposed to light, which hardens the emulsion in the areas where the image or text is present. The plate is then developed, which removes the unexposed emulsion, leaving behind a raised image or text on the plate.
- Ink Application: The plate is mounted onto the printing press, and ink is applied to it. The ink adheres to the raised image areas on the plate, but not to the non-image areas, which are kept wet by a water or dampening system.
- Printing: The plate comes in contact with a rubber blanket, which is then pressed against the paper or other substrate, transferring the ink onto the surface.
- Finishing: After printing, the ink is allowed to dry, and any necessary finishing such as cutting, binding, or folding is performed.
Offset printing works by using the principle that oil-based ink and water-based dampening system do not mix. This allows for precise and high-quality printing on a variety of surfaces, including paper, cardboard, and plastic. It is a popular choice for high-volume printing jobs such as books, magazines, and catalogs, as well as for producing high-quality prints of fine art and photography.
While we generally discourage the use of borders in designs, if you insist on including them, it's important to be aware of a potential issue. If the border is positioned close to the cutline, there is a chance that it might appear slightly off-center when trimmed. To mitigate this risk, we suggest making your borders at least 1/4" thick. This extra width will provide us with ample room for cutting, ensuring a more accurate alignment with the intended design.
To cater to the preferences of our valued customers, we provide two options for round corners: a 1/4" radius and a 1/8" radius. The accompanying image below offers a visual comparison of these two radius sizes for your convenience.
Bundling provides a convenient solution for organizing print orders into pre-determined quantities, offering ease of use for you, your customers, or for EDDM (Every Door Direct Mail) purposes. Orders will be bundled in either 50 or 100 piece quantities and will be appropriately banded according to the USPS EDDM banding requirements. This ensures efficient handling and distribution of your printed materials.
Please Note:
Please note that the processing time required for bundling your product is not included in the selected turnaround time when placing your order. Kindly allocate an additional 1 to 2 days to the selected turnaround time to account for this service.
It is important to mention that the type of band used for bundling may vary depending on facility availability. The image below showcases a paper band, which is one of the options utilized.
Lastly, please be aware that the maximum quantity offered for bundling is 25,000 pieces.
Perfect Binding provides a polished and sophisticated appearance to your booklets. This binding method involves securely gluing the pages and cover together at the spine using a durable and flexible thermal glue.
To assist you in preparing your Perfect Bound Booklets, we offer templates for both the cover and inside pages, ensuring accurate alignment and dimensions.
Please take note that the page count specified in the product name for Perfect Bound Booklets does not include the cover. For example, if you select "8.5 x 11, 52-Pages," you will need to upload 48 inside pages along with a 4-page cover file (always set as 4:0). This distinction ensures that you provide the correct number of pages for the inside content and a separate file for the cover design.
We advise against designing specifically on the spine of the Perfect Bound Catalogs. It is preferable to use backgrounds or images that extend across the entire book. Design elements such as text, borders, or colors centered solely on the spine may result in an uneven appearance during the binding process.
Templates for the covers of the Perfect Bound Catalogs are provided, and they correspond to the number of inside pages. For the inside pages, you can utilize the standard 8.5x11 and 8.5x5.5 flat Flyer templates. These templates are suitable for all the inside pages and ensure accurate sizing and layout.
With Long Edge Binding, the final orientation of the book is in portrait mode, while Short Edge Binding results in a landscape orientation. However, please note that for our short run quantities ranging from 25 to 200, Long Edge binding is the only option available.
EDGE Cards are crafted using a combination of three high-quality stocks expertly fused together, resulting in a remarkably thick, 32pt triple layered card with a distinctive colored core.
The Face Stock consists of a 9pt Bright White Premium uncoated material featuring a smooth finish.
The Insert Stock, on the other hand, is made from a robust 14pt Premium Opaque Black stock, adding to the card's durability and aesthetic appeal.
Yes, EDGE Cards are constructed using premium uncoated paper, which provides a smooth surface suitable for writing. We recommend conducting a test to ensure compatibility with your specific writing instrument or application.
EDGE Cards are designed to maintain their quality and durability for an extended period, given normal conditions. However, it is important to avoid subjecting the cards to extreme temperatures as it may result in undesirable effects. For instance, exposing the cards to prolonged high heat, such as leaving them in the windshield of a car, can compromise their longevity.
To ensure optimal performance and longevity, it is advisable to protect EDGE Cards from excessive heat, cold, as well as extremely dry or humid environments. By avoiding exposure to such conditions, you can preserve the quality of your EDGE Cards for years to come.
Our process begins with a 16pt stock as the foundation, to which we apply a 1.5mil soft velvet laminate on both sides of the sheet. This meticulous lamination results in a total thickness of 19pt. The soft velvet finish enhances the look and feel of the cards, providing a gentle and supple texture. It also imparts a subtle effect on the colors, reducing contrast and creating an overall lighter and more muted appearance.
Soft Touch Lamination Cards exhibit water resistance, offering protection when exposed to small amounts of water. However, it is important to note that they are not completely waterproof. Submerging the cards in water may result in water seepage, leading to damage. We recommend conducting a test to evaluate the suitability of the cards for your specific application, ensuring they meet your requirements and expectations.
The term "Soft Touch Lamination" is used to describe the velvety and supple texture of the cards, rather than the specific materials employed in their construction. To achieve this luxurious soft touch appearance, a special soft velvet laminate is carefully applied to both sides of the card. This process enhances the tactile experience, resulting in a premium texture that resembles the softness and elegance associated with Soft Touch Lamination.
To obtain templates for our Presentation Folder, please download them from our website. It is essential to keep in mind that these templates are designed to be printed in a flat format.
The designation of the pockets is based on the flat images so when choosing pockets be mindful of this, please use this image as an example.
IMPORTANT: When selecting slits, please ensure that any design, text, or logos are kept outside of the slit areas. Additionally, the orientation rule mentioned above should be followed for determining the side of the pocket where the slits will be placed.
It is normal for coated jobs to experience cracking when they are scored and folded. While ordering the job without UV coating may help, it may not entirely prevent cracking. It is important to note that as the job is repeatedly used and folded, cracking is likely to occur over time. Specifically, for black ink or dark designs, the risk of cracking increases with higher ink density.
Yes. When choosing the 4/4 option, the uploader will require two separate files. In this case, the "Front" file should represent the cover and back cover of the final piece, while the "Back" file will be used for the inside of the folder.
No, please utilize our template for designing the artwork, but make sure to remove any guides for slits. If a template is provided as a layer within the artwork, it will be printed.
Designing booklets can be a slightly more intricate process. Additionally, if you have artwork that was created by another company, it may not adhere to our guidelines. To ensure optimal outcomes, we recommend using our provided templates.
Please adhere to the following guidelines when creating your booklets:
- Page numbering should begin with the cover as page 1, followed by the inside cover as page 2, and so forth.
- Maintain a total bleed of .25" and a total safety margin of .5". For instance, an 8.5x11 booklet with bleed should have a total size of 8.75x11.25, enabling us to correctly set up your crossovers.
- Please provide single pages only; do not submit reader's spreads or printer's spreads.
- While we prefer receiving a multipage PDF, single-page files are also acceptable.
Our booklet page numbering begins with the cover designated as page 1, followed by the inside cover as page 2, and so forth. This sequential order is also represented in our provided templates.
In booklets, crossovers are frequently used and require additional consideration. A crossover refers to an image, text, or any other graphic element that extends from one page to another.
Designers should exercise careful attention when creating crossover designs to ensure a seamless appearance in the final printed piece. Avoid using text or thin lines as crossovers, as larger images tend to yield better results.
Please note that due to the nature of saddle stitch binding, crossovers may not align perfectly in the final booklet.
If you are using software like InDesign or other layout tools that utilize spreads or facing pages, remember to save your artwork as single-page PDFs. This is particularly important when dealing with crossovers. To simplify the process, it is recommended to set up the bleed while creating your document.
When setting up your document, ensure that your page size matches the intended cut size, and set a margin size of .25" for safety, resulting in a total margin of .5".
As a service, we do offer shrink wrapping.
No, please utilize our template for designing the artwork, but make sure to remove any guides or crop marks. If a template is provided as a layer within the artwork, it will be printed.
To begin, access the "Quick Order" option from the top menu. From there, open the drop-down menu and locate the desired product you wish to order. Once selected, customize the options according to your preferences and provide a name for your order. At this stage, you can proceed to upload your artwork or shipping labels if applies. Once your files are uploaded, click on the "Add to Cart" button. Here's the key difference between this scenario and the normal upload method: the page will add your product to the shopping cart and refresh, displaying the product you were just working on, including the quantity and selected options. This allows you to upload multiple jobs with the same stock and quantity consecutively, at the speed of file uploading alone. However, please note that when using this method, you will need to preflight your files in advance, as the online preflighting tool will be bypassed. This enables you to place multiple versions of your order quickly, but it is essential to ensure file readiness beforehand.
You can also use the link below:
Yes we offer numbering for our event tickets. You can choose a starting number and the location of where you would like your numbers to appear.
See our numerous numbering positions below:
Large format printing is a printing technique used to create large-scale prints, typically for use in signage, banners, posters, and other promotional materials. Here's how it works:
- Prepress: First, a digital file of the image or text is created using software such as Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. The file is then sent to the large format printer.
- Ink Application: Large format printers use either inkjet or dye-sublimation technology to apply the ink to the printing surface. Inkjet printers use tiny droplets of ink that are sprayed onto the surface, while dye-sublimation printers use heat to transfer dye onto the surface.
- Printing: The printing surface is fed through the large format printer, which applies the ink or dye in a single pass. Large format printers can handle a wide variety of materials, including paper, vinyl, canvas, and fabric.
- Finishing: After printing, the large format print may be laminated or mounted onto a backing board to protect it and make it more durable.
Large format printing allows for the creation of eye-catching and highly visible prints, making it an effective advertising tool for businesses and organizations. It offers the ability to print on a wide range of materials and can produce prints up to several meters in size. Large format printing is used in a variety of industries, including retail, hospitality, sports and entertainment, and more.
With large format products, you don’t need to send bleeds. We add bleed for large format products automatically.
Clear Window Clings consist of a durable 8mil thick clear glossy material, accompanied by a removable paper backer. These clings are designed for versatile use, both indoors and outdoors. They are particularly well-suited for creating eye-catching POP signage on glass or other sleek and clean surfaces. However, it is important to note that extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, may affect the cling's ability to adhere to the surface effectively.
When utilizing Clear Window Clings, you have the flexibility to incorporate white ink as an overprint, allowing for a combination of opaque and transparent elements in your printed design. This feature enables the creation of vibrant and sharp colors.
Similar to Spot UV masks, it is important to prepare separate White Mask files alongside your artwork files. In the White Mask file, the color black is used to indicate where the white ink will be applied.
To ensure proper alignment during printing, it is crucial to create the mask file in the same dimensions as your color art file.
Please note that White Masks must be created in vector format and saved as EPS or PDF, utilizing 100% K (black).
Create black color areas using vector paths/shapes to designate the specific regions where the white ink base will be applied. The remaining area will represent the Clear Window cling.
Instructions for Illustrator:
Once the black color areas using vector paths/shapes is created, create a brand new Swatch and use the following info to fill it up these areas with this color.
- Swatch Name: WHITE_INK
- Color Type: Spot Color
- Color Mode: CMYK
- Color Values: C 0% M 0% Y 0% K 100%
Last step is to click on the black color areas you created, and go to Window>Attributes and select the option of Overprint Fill and Overprint Strokes. This will guaranteed that the white ink will print together with the CMYK.
To verify this process is working as intended, you can turn on the option under the View menu of Overprint Preview. You should see a CMYK image with a darker tone all over.
Overview:
- White ink base will be printed behind any color present in your Artwork Layer.
- Areas that have color but lack a White Mask will be printed directly on the material, resulting in somewhat transparent color due to the Clear substrate.
- Areas with both color and a White Mask will be printed as opaque or solid color.
- Areas with a White Mask and no color will be printed as white.
- The black used in the White Mask file must have the following specifications: 0% C, 0% M, 0% Y, 100% K. Failure to meet these specifications may result in the file not being recognized by preflight.
The Clear Window Cling can be reused multiple times as long as it remains clean. To ensure its longevity, it is advisable to retain the backing and use it to protect the cling when not in use.
To begin, ensure that the window or application surface is thoroughly cleaned and dried. Prepare a spray bottle with a mixture of 1% soap and 99% water, and use it to completely cover the area where the application will be placed. Take caution when peeling off the backing, ensuring that the cling does not fold over itself. Position the side that had the backing against the surface and firmly press the cling onto the window. To remove excess water and eliminate air bubbles, employ a squeegee or credit card, starting from the center and moving outward. If needed, spray additional soapy water on the back of the graphic to lubricate the surface during the process.
- Open the image file: Launch Photoshop and open the large dimension file you want to convert.
- Go to "Image Size": Click on the "Image" menu at the top and select "Image Size." A dialog box will appear.
- Uncheck "Resample": In the Image Size dialog box, make sure the "Resample" checkbox is unchecked. This ensures that you maintain the original pixel dimensions of the image and prevent any loss of resolution.
- Adjust the output dimensions: In the Image Size dialog box, you can specify the desired output dimensions for your image. You can enter the desired width and height in inches, centimeters, pixels, or any other unit of measurement. Make sure the dimensions you enter are within the maximum limit of Photoshop (300,000 pixels).
- Check the resolution: While maintaining the same pixel dimensions, ensure that the resolution remains unchanged or matches the required output resolution. If necessary, adjust the resolution value to the desired output resolution.
- Select the interpolation method: Photoshop provides several interpolation methods for resizing images. The default method is usually "Automatic." However, if you want to control the interpolation, you can select a different method from the drop-down menu. Bicubic interpolation tends to be a good choice for most situations.
- Preview and apply the changes: Before clicking "OK," take a moment to preview the image and confirm that the dimensions and resolution are as desired. If everything looks good, click "OK" to apply the changes.
By following these steps and unchecking the "Resample" option, you can adjust the dimensions and resolution of your image without losing any pixel data or reducing the overall image quality.
For Ridig materials, the max size is 5' x 10'.
For Flex materials, the max size is 126"(width). The length would be the full length of the roller.
Acrylic possesses several notable properties that contribute to its high performance. Key characteristics include optical clarity, low sensitivity to UV rays, and excellent resistance to various weather conditions. Acrylic provides a clear and brilliant appearance similar to glass, while being significantly lighter and more durable.
For the Color Spec Option: 5/0 (with Mask), it is NOT necessary to reverse the artwork before submitting.
- Make sure to include a 0.25" bleed on all sides of your artwork.
- Avoid adding crop marks to your artwork.
To achieve vibrant and sharp colors, white ink can be utilized as an overprint, providing areas of opacity and transparency in your printed graphic. To ensure proper alignment during printing, it is essential to create the mask file in the same size as your color art file.
Similar to Spot UV masks, it is important to prepare separate White Mask files alongside your artwork files. In the White Mask file, the color black is used to indicate where the white ink will be applied.
Please note that White Masks must be created in vector format and saved as EPS or PDF, utilizing 100% K (black).
Create black color areas using vector paths/shapes to designate the specific regions where the white ink base will be applied. The remaining area will represent the Acrylic Sign.
Instructions for Illustrator:
Once the black color areas using vector paths/shapes is created, create a brand new Swatch and use the following info to fill it up these areas with this color.
- Swatch Name: WHITE_INK
- Color Type: Spot Color
- Color Mode: CMYK
- Color Values: C 0% M 0% Y 0% K 100%
Last step is to click on the black color areas you created, and go to Window>Attributes and select the option of Overprint Fill and Overprint Strokes. This will guaranteed that the white ink will print together with the CMYK.
To verify this process is working as intended, you can turn on the option under the View menu of Overprint Preview. You should see a CMYK image with a darker tone all over.
Overview:
- White ink base will be printed behind any color present in your Artwork Layer.
- Areas that have color but lack a White Mask will be printed directly on the material, resulting in somewhat transparent color due to the Clear substrate.
- Areas with both color and a White Mask will be printed as opaque or solid color.
- Areas with a White Mask and no color will be printed as white.
- The black used in the White Mask file must have the following specifications: 0% C, 0% M, 0% Y, 100% K. Failure to meet these specifications may result in the file not being recognized by preflight.
The Acrylic Signs we offer have a transparent appearance.
Yes! We currently provide the following finishing options for your convenience:
- 3/8" Drill Hole with hole placement 1 inch from each corner
- Round or Straight Corners
- Contour Cuts
- 5/8" x 1" Stand Off hardware.
- PVC frame on the back for a Museum style type of hanger
Yes. Our Acrylic Signs are suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. However, we recommend conducting a test or trial before utilizing them outdoors to ensure optimal performance.
Yes. We provide Stand Off hardware measuring 5/8" x 1" as a mounting choice, along with a PVC Frame to achieve a flawless floating look. When placing your order, kindly ensure to choose the appropriate "drill hole options for Stand Offs" so that the hardware can be installed correctly.
We provide a range of sizes for Acrylic Signs, starting from 4" x 4" and going up to 48” x 96”.
To ensure longevity, UV-cured inks are employed to directly print onto the surface of the Acrylic, enabling the Acrylic Signs to withstand outdoor conditions for an extended period.
When utilizing Clear Window Vinyl, you have the flexibility to incorporate white ink as an overprint, allowing for a combination of opaque and transparent elements in your printed design. This feature enables the creation of vibrant and sharp colors.
Similar to Spot UV masks, it is important to prepare separate White Mask files alongside your artwork files. In the White Mask file, the color black is used to indicate where the white ink will be applied.
To ensure proper alignment during printing, it is crucial to create the mask file in the same dimensions as your color art file.
Please note that White Masks must be created in vector format and saved as EPS or PDF, utilizing 100% K (black).
Create black color areas using vector paths/shapes to designate the specific regions where the white ink base will be applied. The remaining area will represent the Clear Window Vinyl.
Instructions for Illustrator:
Once the black color areas using vector paths/shapes is created, create a brand new Swatch and use the following info to fill it up these areas with this color.
- Swatch Name: WHITE_INK
- Color Type: Spot Color
- Color Mode: CMYK
- Color Values: C 0% M 0% Y 0% K 100%
Last step is to click on the black color areas you created, and go to Window>Attributes and select the option of Overprint Fill and Overprint Strokes. This will guaranteed that the white ink will print together with the CMYK.
To verify this process is working as intended, you can turn on the option under the View menu of Overprint Preview. You should see a CMYK image with a darker tone all over.
Overview:
- White ink base will be printed behind any color present in your Artwork Layer.
- Areas that have color but lack a White Mask will be printed directly on the material, resulting in somewhat transparent color due to the Clear substrate.
- Areas with both color and a White Mask will be printed as opaque or solid color.
- Areas with a White Mask and no color will be printed as white.
- The black used in the White Mask file must have the following specifications: 0% C, 0% M, 0% Y, 100% K. Failure to meet these specifications may result in the file not being recognized by preflight.
Our Acrylic signs are 3mm, 6mm and up to 10mm thick. If you don’t see the thickness you are looking for, you can request a custom quote.
We utilize UV inks to print on acrylic, ensuring durability without any drying time. While our standard printing is single-sided, we do offer the option to print on both sides. For this service, please request a custom quote.
Yes. We provide custom sizes for our products, allowing dimensions of up to 4'x8'. Simply click on the "Custom Sizes" option in the Size dropdown menu to specify your desired measurements.
We will supply you with detailed instructions to assist you throughout this process. If you have chosen to utilize our templates, simply align the template with your wall, secure it in position using masking tape, and mark the designated spots for your standoffs. From there, proceed by drilling the necessary holes, inserting the anchors, and finally mounting your acrylic.
Unfortunately, customization is not available for this specific product. However, we encourage you to request a custom quote, and our team will gladly assist you with your specific requirements.
The number of holes will vary depending on the size. For larger sizes exceeding 48" in width or length, the product will come with six holes (one in each corner, plus two in the middle). On the other hand, smaller sizes will be equipped with four holes (one in each corner).
Each hole is positioned at a distance of 5/8" from the edge of the sign, precisely at its center. The diameter of each hole measures 3/8".
Please remember that drilled holes are not included by default. To ensure your acrylic signs are produced with drilled holes, please select the "Drilled holes" option under the "Mounting Options" during the ordering process.
Typically, a roll-up banner is designed to withstand approximately 100 pulls before it may require a replacement of either the stand or the entire banner. Our guarantee for the banner lasts for one month following the date of purchase. If you encounter any problems with the banner within this timeframe, kindly submit a ticket, and we will promptly address and resolve the issue for you.
Styrene signs are not recommended for long-term outdoor use due to their vulnerability to weather elements.
When creating a Dieline for a custom shape design, you have the flexibility to incorporate intricate cuts to make your design more interesting and creative.
Similar to Spot UV masks or white spot mask, it is important to prepare a separate layer alongside your artwork files. In the layer, the color Black, Magenta or Cyan is used to indicate where the cutline, drill or crease will be applied.
To ensure proper alignment during printing, it is crucial to create the cut layer in the same dimensions as your color art file and over impose it on your design to make sure everything lines up.
Please note that the cut layer must be created in vector format and saved as EPS or PDF. Cut layers CAN NOT be a raster file. So no jpg, tiff, jpeg or png is allowed for this.
Instructions for Illustrator:
Create strokes using vector paths/shapes to designate the specific regions where the cut line will be applied.
Once the black stroked shape using vector paths/shapes is created, create a brand new Swatch and use the following info to fill up these strokes with this color.
- Swatch Name: Cut
- Color Type: Spot Color
- Color Mode: CMYK
- Color Values: C 0% M 0% Y 0% K 100%
If you decide to do a drill hole on your sign, using your stroked shape or vector paths/shapes, create a brand new Swatch and use the following info to fill up these strokes with this color.
- Swatch Name: Drill
- Color Type: Spot Color
- Color Mode: CMYK
- Color Values: C 0% M 100% Y 0% K 0%
If you decide to do a Crease on your sign, using your stroked shape or vector paths/shapes, create a brand new Swatch and use the following info to fill up these strokes with this color.
- Swatch Name: Crease
- Color Type: Spot Color
- Color Mode: CMYK
- Color Values: C 100% M 0% Y 0% K 0%
Last step is to click on the color outlines you created, and go to Window>Attributes and select the option of Overprint Strokes. This will guaranteed that the shape will show on the final file as a separate layer.
To verify this process is working as intended, you can turn on the option under the View menu of Overprint Preview. You should see a CMYK image with a darker tone in the area of the stroke.
Summary:
- The design will be cut exactly where the cut line is placed.
- There is a limitation on the amount of custom cutting allowed per job, which is determined by the combined length of all sides of the sign. If the cut file exceeds this limit, it will be rejected, and a custom quote will be provided. For example, if you pick a 12x18 sign, your maximum linear length of custom cutting you are allowed is 12+12+18+18= 60 linear inches. If your cut file, exceeds that 60 linear inches, it will be rejected and you will have to custom quote the order.
- Multiple types of finishing (cut, drill, crease) can be included in a single file.
- Ensure that the stroke is set to overprint and the color swatch is a Spot Color. Failure to do so may result in the cut line being printed or causing issues with CMYK printing like white lines.
In general, the carriers we utilize do not provide delivery services to PO Box addresses. However, if you have your own personal carrier that is capable of delivering to a PO Box address, you can send us the shipping label, and we will make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your request.
On our website, it is not possible to ship one order to two different locations directly. However, you can use our custom quote system to request a quote, and we will make arrangements to accommodate your specific shipping needs.
Our shipping options include Common Carrier services with various methods such as Ground, Next Day Air, and more. We primarily collaborate with shipping providers such as FedEx, USPS, Freight Companies, Southwest Air Cargo, and Delta Air Cargo.
Yes! We offer the option to drop ship a package to your customer. To do this, just follow these simple steps:
- Choose the "Drop Ship" option during the order process.
- Select an address from your Address Book, which will serve as the shipping address for the order.
- The package will be shipped with your company address initially, but you can easily update the "ship from" address by clicking on "edit." This will ensure that the package is sent to the address you have chosen from your address book.
While we don't offer a specific pricing or weight list, you can obtain instant shipping pricing on our website when you place an order.
Regrettably, we currently do not provide the option to use your own shipping account. However, we do allow customers to generate their own shipping label and upload it while placing an order through the Quick Order link in the top menu. Please note that failing to submit the label at that time may result in an additional charge of up to $15.
We provide this service as a custom quote.
Typically, we do not offer special boxing services. However, if you request a quote for multiple items, we can make arrangements to accommodate this service.
For orders outside of the country, please ensure that you request a custom quote.
To track your packages, simply use the original tracking number provided. You can find the tracking information by visiting our website and navigating to the Orders tab.
We do not provide day-definite guarantees for shipping. As a printing product manufacturer, we do not have control over any delays caused by the third-party shipping companies we utilize.
In the case of drop-ship orders, if a package is deemed undeliverable by FedEx and returned, it will be sent back to us. Please note that a return-delivery fee will be charged in such instances.
By choosing this option, it is your responsibility to ensure that labels are attached to your order during the upload process into our system. You can only do this through the Quick Order process at this link https://a-plusprinting.com/quick_order.php. Please note that we do not accept customer shippers' account numbers for label processing on our end. This option is exclusively intended for supplied label purposes. If a label is not attached to your order at the time of placement, a fee of $5 per product will be applied.disregard this
Blind shipping is a shipping method in which the sender's information, such as the name and address, is concealed from the recipient. Instead, the package is shipped directly from the manufacturer, supplier, or third-party fulfillment center to the customer or end recipient. In blind shipping, the recipient is unaware of the original source or identity of the sender. This method is often used in business-to-business (B2B) transactions or when a retailer wants to maintain confidentiality about their suppliers or manufacturers. It allows the retailer to act as a middleman, providing a seamless experience for the customer while protecting the privacy of the supply chain.
When you reach the shopping cart, you can choose the "Blind Shipping" option (See image below). This selection will reveal an additional button below, allowing you to either choose your existing address or provide a different address by clicking on "Change Address". By selecting the desired ship from address, your customer will receive the order with the address you have specified.
To initiate the split shipment process, begin by clicking on the "Split Ship" button. From there, you can select the specific products you wish to send to the first location. At this stage, you will have the option to choose blind shipping or not, and indicate the desired shipping speed for your shipment. After making your selections, click "Next" and save the changes.
You will be directed back to the product window. To continue the split shipment, select the remaining products and click "Next" once again. Repeat the same process as before. Once all products have been assigned to their respective shipments, proceed to the next menu.
Save your shipments, and you will find yourself back in your shopping cart, ready to finalize and place your order.
A printing quote is a formal estimate provided by a printing company to a customer. It outlines the cost and details of a print job, including factors such as the type of printing (e.g., digital or offset), quantity of items to be printed, paper type, size, color options, finishing options (e.g., binding, laminating), and any additional services required (e.g., graphic design or shipping). Printing quotes are essential for both the printing company and the customer.
A printing quote is not only a means of pricing a specific custom printing job but can also serve as a way to provide prices for products that may not be listed in the company's online catalog. This makes printing quotes a versatile tool for customers who require customized or unique printing solutions that go beyond standard catalog offerings. Customers can compare quotes from different printing companies to find the best deal and ensure that their printing needs are met within their budget and requirements.
Towards the bottom of each product, you'll find a “Quote Product” button. Clicking on this button will redirect you to the estimate page, where you can input your specific requirements. Alternatively, if you're exploring various products, you can access the "Request a Quote" option located in the top center menu of our website at any time.
To submit a quote, simply click on the "Request a Quote" option located in the top center menu. Ensure that you provide all the necessary information and attach any relevant files to the quote request. If you're uncertain about the product's requirements, you can click on the help icon positioned beside each menu for guidance. Please note that we rely on the information you provide to generate a close estimate for your product; however, we may not have knowledge of its specific application.
Certainly, you have the flexibility to do so. You can approve multiple quote products and then select the one you prefer to add to your cart. Alternatively, if you wish to order different quantities of a single product, you can approve them only one at a time within the product quote. In this case, if you want to order several quantities of the same product, make sure to add each quote as a separate request in your estimates. If you add multiple quantities to a single product quote, you'll only be able to choose one of those quantities.
Step 1 - Look for the link in the email we sent and follow the steps.
Step 2 - Approve your quote (See Snapshot Below)
Step 3 - Upload your Print Ready artwork (See Snapshot Below)
Step 4 - Agree to Terms and Add to Cart (See Snapshot Below)
Step 5 - Enter Payment info and Finalize order (See Snapshot Below)
After a quote is approved and the order is placed, it cannot be used for placing another new order. The quote becomes inactive. However, you do have the option to request a new quote if needed. This is necessary due to the price fluctuations that are common in the printing industry.
You have a grace period of 30 days to place a reorder from a previously quoted product. It's important to note that reorders can only be made using the same files as the original order. This restriction is in place because of the specifications you previously selected, which may not be compatible with new files.
After a quote is approved, you have the option to add the selected quote to your cart and complete the payment using your preferred payment method.
You can view your quotes by clicking My Account>My Quotes or clicking on the link below:
For a custom quote, the turnaround time is predetermined and fixed, so you won't have the option to select a different turnaround time. When your order is being estimated, our team will calculate the required time, and you will be able to view the expected completion date at the time of approval. So again, there won't be an option to change the turnaround time.
We do provide a price matching option for custom quotes. We will honor a legitimate estimate from a reputable competitor, as long as it is no more than 7 days old and all job specifications match.
We suggest you email our estimating department at quotes@a-plusprinting.com or call our main number and dial 1014 for direct access to the estimator. You can also request help via our chat widget.
Typically, quotes are processed within the same day. However, the turnaround time may vary depending on our workload, and it could take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours to receive a response. If you need a quote fast, please call customer support or use our chat widget for help.
You can choose to proceed with the quote for up 30 days. After this, you can request another quote for the desired product.
Digital Envelopes are produced through pre-conversion and printing on advanced digital equipment, ensuring a high-quality output.
Offset Envelopes, on the other hand, are printed using offset gang runs, followed by die cutting and conversion into envelopes.
Both types of envelopes are printed on 70LB Premium Opaque stock, providing a durable and professional finish.
- To accommodate movement during the bindery process, it is necessary to include a 1/16" overbleed and ensure that the color extends onto the back of the envelope.
- When designing artwork with bleed on the face or print on any flaps, it is essential to use our certified envelope templates for proper alignment.
- For optimal results, it is recommended to use solid, full-color envelopes, as this eliminates the need for overbleed.
- To enhance the overall design, extending the flap color intentionally onto the envelope face is encouraged.
- For smoother color transitions, gradients are recommended.
- The bleed required is 0.125" (0.0625" on each side).
- Text and images should be at least 0.25" from the edge.
- Artwork with more than 40% ink coverage must be submitted as an offset product.
- Full color backgrounds should be avoided.
- Use a white backgrounds with low ink coverage (e.g. logo and text only).
- Avoid or limit use of transparencies and gradients.
- For window envelopes, the window area must be free of ink.
- For Digital Envelopes:
- 4/0 = Full Color Front
- 4/4 = Full Color Front and Full Color on Back Flaps
- 0/4 = Full Color on Back flaps
Yes. If you wish to have printing on the back flaps of your product only, please select the option 0/4. On the other hand, if you desire printing on both the front and back flaps, please select 4/4. It is important to note that artwork with ink coverage exceeding 40% should be submitted as an offset product to ensure optimal printing results.
- 4/0 = Full Color Front
- 4/4 = Full Color Front and Full Color on Back Flaps
- 0/4 = Full Color on Back flaps
Please use our templates for accurate window placement on your envelopes.
Avoid placing any artwork or color on the window area of the envelope. Maintain a minimum distance of 1/8" between images and the edge of the window. It is important to note that Digital Envelopes are pre-converted and feature a plastic window affixed to the window area before printing. Therefore, the window area must remain blank without any design elements.
Security Tint Envelopes are designed with a blue crisscross pattern on the inside, intentionally distorting the message on the enclosed document. This feature ensures that the contents remain unreadable and protected from unauthorized access. Additionally, these envelopes are equipped with a convenient self-adhesive strip for easy sealing.