Quick Reference

Best Formats PDF, AI, EPS (vector)

Min Resolution 150 DPI at full size

Color Mode CMYK for print

Bleed 0.125" all sides

File Formats

Preferred: Vector Files

AI – Adobe Illustrator native format
EPS – Encapsulated PostScript
PDF – Portable Document Format (with fonts outlined)
SVG – Scalable Vector Graphics

Vector files scale to any size without losing quality. Ideal for logos, text, and graphics with solid colors.

Acceptable: Raster Files

PNG – Best for images with transparency
JPG/JPEG – Photos and complex images
TIFF – High-quality print images
PSD – Adobe Photoshop (layers preserved)

Raster files must be at least 150 DPI at the final print size. Higher is better—300 DPI ideal for close-up viewing.

Avoid

GIF – Limited colors, low quality
BMP – Uncompressed but not print-optimized
Word/PowerPoint – Not designed for print production
Low-res web images – 72 DPI won't scale

If these are all you have, we can often work with them—but expect quality limitations. Contact us to discuss options.

Resolution Requirements

Resolution matters for raster images. Vector files are resolution-independent and always print sharp.

Viewing Distance	Minimum DPI	Examples
Close-up (under 3 ft)	300 DPI	Business cards, small signs, stickers
Mid-range (3–10 ft)	150 DPI	Posters, A-frames, window graphics
Far distance (10+ ft)	72–100 DPI	Billboards, large banners, building wraps

How to Check Resolution

Photoshop: Image → Image Size (check "Resolution" field)
Preview (Mac): Tools → Show Inspector → look for "Image DPI"
Windows: Right-click file → Properties → Details tab

Tip: Resolution should be checked at the final print size, not the file's native dimensions. A 300 DPI image at 2" wide becomes 75 DPI when scaled to 8" wide.

Document Size and Bleed

Set Up at Final Size

Create your artwork at the exact dimensions you want the finished sign to be. If you need a 24" × 36" poster, set your document to 24" × 36".

Add Bleed for Edge-to-Edge Printing

Bleed is extra image area beyond the cut line. It prevents white edges if the cut is slightly off.

Standard bleed: 0.125" (1/8") on all sides
Large format: 0.25" (1/4") recommended for banners and signs over 4 ft

Safe Zone / Margins

Keep important content (text, logos) at least 0.25" away from the cut edge. This is your "safe zone."

Bleed Area

Cut Line

Safe Zone Your Content

Color Mode and Matching

CMYK for Print

All printed materials use CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black). Convert your files from RGB to CMYK before submitting. Colors may shift slightly during conversion.

Pantone / Spot Colors

For precise brand color matching, provide Pantone (PMS) color codes. We calibrate our printers daily and can match most Pantone colors. Specify "coated" (C) or "uncoated" (U) versions.

Color Calibration Notes

Monitor colors ≠ printed colors (monitors use RGB light)
Request a physical proof for color-critical projects
Neon, metallic, and fluorescent colors cannot be reproduced in standard CMYK
White ink is available for printing on clear or dark materials—specify if needed

Fonts and Text

Outline All Fonts

Convert all text to outlines (also called "curves" or "paths") before submitting. This ensures your text prints exactly as designed, even if we don't have your fonts installed.

Illustrator: Select text → Type → Create Outlines (Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+O)
InDesign: Select text → Type → Create Outlines
Photoshop: Right-click text layer → Convert to Shape

Minimum Text Size

Small signs (under 2 ft): 12pt minimum for readability
Large signs (2–6 ft): Scale appropriately—1" tall text visible from ~10 ft
Banners and billboards: Use the "1 inch per 10 feet" rule for readability

Tip: Thin fonts (light weights, fine serifs) may not reproduce well at small sizes or on textured materials.

Special Considerations

Cut Lines (Die-Cut / Shape-Cut Signs)

For custom-shaped signs, include a separate cut line layer:

Use a distinct stroke color (magenta or spot color labeled "Cut")
Make cut lines vector paths, not raster outlines
Ensure artwork extends to the cut line with bleed

Double-Sided Signs

Provide separate files for front and back, or clearly label layers. Indicate if back should be mirrored (for window decals viewed from inside).

Variable Data / Versioning

If ordering multiple versions (different locations, names, etc.), provide a spreadsheet with variable text and clearly marked placement areas.

Die-Cut Stickers and Decals

For kiss-cut or die-cut stickers, provide artwork with a cut line. We recommend 0.0625" (1/16") offset from the design edge.

Pre-Flight Checklist

Before submitting your artwork, verify:

File is at final print size
Bleed added (0.125" or more)
Resolution is 150+ DPI (for raster images)
Color mode is CMYK
All fonts outlined/converted to paths
Important content is within safe zone
Cut lines are on separate layer (if applicable)
File saved in accepted format (PDF, AI, EPS, PNG, JPG)

Ready to Submit?

Upload your artwork through our project form. Our team will review your files and let you know if anything needs adjustment—usually within a few hours.

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Need Help?

Design Services

Don't have finished artwork? We offer design services from concept to production-ready files. Design fees are quoted upfront and credited toward your order.

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File Review

Not sure if your files are print-ready? Send them over and we'll review them for free. We'll let you know exactly what adjustments are needed.

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FAQ

Quick answers to common questions about artwork, materials, turnaround times, and more.

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