File Setup Guidelines for Printing
& Large Format Graphics

Preferred File Types (Vector):

• Accepted: Adobe Illustrator (.AI), Encapsulated PostScript (.EPS), PDF (from Illustrator/CorelDRAW)
• All fonts must be converted to outlines/curves before saving
• Embed all linked images and graphics
• Flatten or rasterize transparencies and effects
• Not accepted: Quark, Word Perfect, or native CorelDRAW (.CDR) files

Raster Files (Photographic Images):

• Accepted: TIFF (.TIF, .TIFF), JPEG (.JPG, .JPEG), Bitmap (.BMP)
• Resolution:
  • Indoor signs (close viewing): 100–150 dpi at final size
  • Outdoor signs (distance viewing): 50–150 dpi at final size
  • Billboards/very large graphics: 50 dpi at final size
• Do not upscale low-res images; start with high-resolution originals
• Flatten all layers before saving; remove unnecessary alpha channels

Color Profile:

• CMYK color mode required for all print files
• RGB images may print with color shifts
• For critical color accuracy, specify Pantone (PMS) numbers or request a proof

Bleed & Safe Area:

• Add at least 0.125" (1/8 inch) bleed on all sides
• Keep text/important graphics 0.125" inside the trim/cut line
• Use our print templates for accuracy

File Size & Submission:

• Compress large files (ZIP or StuffIt) for email
• For files over 25MB, use WeTransfer, Dropbox, Google Drive, or provide a download link

General Best Practices:

• Flatten all transparencies and raster effects
• Convert all text to outlines/curves
• Embed all images or include them in a packaged folder
• Review your file at 100% zoom for pixelation or errors

Monitor colors do not reflect actual printed colors.