Artwork File Guidelines

In order to keep prices low and maintain quick turnaround times, we need to outline certain responsibilities for our customers with regard to file preparation. Orders received varying from these specifications are subject to delays and/or additional charges to put them into a conforming condition. We will prep or ‘fix’ the files you send us at $50.00/hour. To avoid extra charges, please follow the guidelines below as closely as possible.

Accepted File Formats:

We use Adobe® Illustrator® or Photoshop® for all file prep work. You may send us any type of file compatible with either program. (acceptable file formats - .ai * .eps * .pdf * .psd * .jpg * .jpeg * .tif

Raster Images (pictures): Images should be flattened and sent as .tif files (.jpg images will work, but will usually be compressed more resulting in poor image quality). Full color files for printing should be set at full size and 100 ppi minimum (any less and the image quality may not be as good as we would like). This should produce a file around 40 mb ( per 10 Sq Ft = 2' x 5' ). Generally, files over 40 mb are generally used for large format graphics. If you create your file at 1/2 scale, increase the resolution accordingly to 200 ppi minimum. For smaller, high-res prints, you can increase the resolution up to 300-600 ppi. Keep in mind that color matching with raster mages is usually more difficult and may be more expensive.

Vector Images: Vector based images are preferred when possible because of their quality, file size and more accurate colors. Files should be sent as .ai or .eps with ALL FONTSMUST BE CONVERTED TO OUTLINES. (Most of the problems we see come from missing fonts!) If you are using a program other than Illustrator you should still be able to export your file as an .eps with fonts converted to outlines or curves.

File Preparation:
All vector based files should be saved in CMYK. Any RGB photographic raster images can be sent in RGB.
Files must be sized or scaled correctly. For scaled-down files, always include enlarging instructions (such as “enlarge 200%”).
You need to include 1" (one inch) of bleed or extra space for finishing in your file. We will add extra space for overlapping, hems or pole pockets. (which ever the design requires).

*Special Notes on Banners - Please design your 2’, 3’, 4’ and 5’ banners to finish 2” under the roll width (2’ banners should be sized at 22”, 3’ banners should be sized at 34”, etc.). Banners that need to finish at a full 2’, 3’, 4’ or 5’ may cost more to cover the extra vinyl that is wasted.

Sending Your Files:
Small files (under 5 mb) can be emailed to art@dominating-designs.com
Files over 5 mb we ask that you mail your files on a disk. We prefer you send files on a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM. We won’t return your CD’s or DVD’s unless you ask.

Order Details:
Please be sure to include all the details of your order, including media (vinyl, decal, paper, etc.), quantity, size, finishing (hems, grommets, laminating requirements, etc.) and any other special instructions (color matching, deadlines, etc.).

Proofs: (for digitally printed graphics)
We suggest sending a proof with your file, but we don’t require it. Proofs allow us to verify that files open and print correctly. Proofs can be printed copies of your file. If you choose not to send a proof, you will be responsible for any file problems that could have been caught had a proof been sent.

Colors & Color Matching: (for digitally printed graphics)
Unless you request otherwise, colors will be printed AS IS, without any alteration on our part. Remember that the printed colors and the colors seen on a monitor will usually be a little (or, in some cases, a lot) different, so you may get unexpected results. You will be responsible for problems due to color errors if you don’t request color matching. For approximate color matching, there is no extra charge. Examples of approximate color matching are: “It just needs to be a dark red” or “The blue needs to be close to PMS 286.” We will make sure the colors are close, but there are no guarantees or refunds. Exact color matching fees normally start at $25.00 and are billed at our hourly rate of $50.00. For exact color matching, you must provide PMS numbers or a physical color swatch. You may also be required to approve an actual printed proof before we complete your job, so plan on a few extra days for jobs with color matching. Because some colors are easier to match than others, we may be able to waive the $25.00 minimum. Please contact us for details and prices. We can usually quote you a color matching price in advance.