Now, without further ado, the FILE PREPARATION GUIDELINES:
1. Accepted File Types
We accept .ai, .eps, .svg, .psd, .pdf, .jpg, and .tif file formats.
2. Document Sizes / Bleed Settings
All files, whether their artwork extends to the edge of the document or not, should be submitted with a .1” bleed (.05” bleed on each side of the document). All crucial elements (i.e. text, faces, etc.) should be at least .25” from the edge of the document.
IT IS BEST TO USE ONE OF OUR PROVIDED SIZING TEMPLATES to be sure your files will be set up correctly.
3. Fonts
If you are submitting an .ai, .eps, .pdf, or .psd file, please EITHER include your fonts in the .zip file you submit OR:
a. IN ILLUSTRATOR: create outlines of all type elements (i.e. turn them into vectors)
b. IN PHOTOSHOP: rasterize your type
Please, even if your file is a PDF file, if you created it in illustrator, create outlines for all type elements.
4. Colors
Your document should be set up to print in CMYK mode. Spot colors, Pantones, and RGB colors may produce unexpected results in the final print.
If you are worried about color matching, Aper + Pink does provide color matching services for designers and resellers. We can match envelopes, physical swatches, etc., and we can also provide hard-copy samples of your files so you can see how your colors will print on our printers. Please inquire if you are interested in hard-copy proofs or other color matching services.
Note that if you have a calibrated monitor, your monitor will provide a surprisingly accurate representation of how colors will actually print on our printers.
5. Resolution
Please be sure that your document’s resolution, whatever file format you’re submitting, is set to 300 dots per inch (dpi) or else your artwork may not print properly.
6. Bitmap elements, Photos, Etc.
It is best to include these elements as linked (rather than embedded) elements. If linked, please be sure to include all linked files in your .zip file at the time of submission.
7. Zipping Your Files
If you are only submitting a single file, say a single PDF file, then you can upload it as is. Just be sure to name it appropriately (see step 8).
If you have multiple files for your order, if you need to include font files, or if you have linked bitmap/photo elements, please create a single Zip file containing your artwork and support files.
a. Mac users: Ctrl-click your folder and select “Compress [folder name].” Stuffit files are also acceptable.
b. Windows users: you can download one of the many free or shareware compression utilities such as WinZip or ZipGenius.
Once your file has been zipped, please be sure to name it appropriately (see step 8).
8. File Naming
While you will be uploading your file at the time of placing your order, meaning the file will be “linked” to your order in our database, it’s still a good idea for your file name to give an indication of what order the file belongs to. Please name files using your name and a unique file name.
File names should not contain spaces but can use lowercase, uppercase, dashes and underscores.
9. Submitting Your Files
Beginning in September 2012, you should be able to upload your files as you create your order. If for any reason this process fails, you can submit your file by going to https://dropbox.yousendit.com/
