Careful preparation of PDF files is important for a press job. Firstly, the PDF file must be high resolution. If you’re creating a PDF file from an Adobe application such as inDesign, choose the “For Press” option or better when creating a PDF. From other applications such as Quark, Do not downsample below 300 dpi (in general) and don’t compress.
Make sure that you preserve the correct color settings; If you’re creating a four-color project, your PDF file should be CMYK. (Cyan-Magenta-Yellow and Black) If you have spot colors in your project, ensure that the spot colors are preserved when creating the PDF file.
If the document has bleeds (your page prints to the edge of the sheet), please add them to your PDF file. Extend your artwork at least 1/8″ past the edge of the sheet. You can leave crop and registration marks on or off. If you leave them off, we can add them prior to imaging plates.
As always, it’s best to consult your commercial printer BEFORE you begin work on your project. It will save valuable time and $$!