PDF FILE PREP
Grafika File Prep Guidelines.
- We prefer Adobe Illustrator files ( .ai ) but will also accept Indesign ( .indd ) or PDF files as well. Photoshop is not recommended. Please design your file in the CMYK color space.
- Die lines should be on their own layer as well as any special finishes such as Foil, Varnish, White Ink, etc.
- There should be a .0625” minimum safe zone from all die cut or trim edges.
- Offset bleeds should be set to .125”. Flexo bleeds should be set to .0625”. Image resolution should be a minimum of 300 dpi.
- Only use open type fonts. Postscript Type 1 fonts are no longer supported by Adobe.
- Minimum recommended reverse type size is 5pt.Minimum recommended positive type size is 4pt.
- Minimum recommended reverse rule size is .5pt. Minimum recommended positive rule size is .25pt.
- Minimum printable dot is 1%, max is 99%.
- Please do not trap your files. We apply trapping within our Rip.
- Barcode Specs: Max size is 100%, Min size is 80%. Bar Width Reduction is 40 microns or .001”. No print zone of .125” surrounding.
- Use the Separations Preview window to verify your desired print colors. PMS colors intended to print as CMYK should be set to the Pantone Bridge library colors. Black text should be 100% black, not a 4c black build.
- Rich or Kicker blacks may be applied to solid backgrounds. Our standard is 50C 40M 40Y 100K.
- 4 color grays should be avoided if possible and replaced as Grayscale.
- Set the Document Raster Effects Settings in Illustrator as shown in Figure 1
Ready to send us your files?
Here's what we need from you:
- Use spellcheck on your file.
- Packaged files from Illustrator ( .ai ) or Indesign ( .indd ).
- A version with live fonts and all linked images and fonts included.
- We also would like a version with outlined text. (We work mostly from the outlined file version, but like having the ability to make text edits on our end if requested.)
- We would also like a low resolution PDF for reference.