General instructions apply to both Portrait- Landscape layouts and for all sizes.
We accept only High Resolution PDF Print Ready CMYK files and all text must be supplied as outlines and all elements at 300dpi – NO PMS colours, RGB, LAB etc. Photos and Images MUST be converted to CMYK – DO NOT supply RGB images, include 5mm bleed and trim marks.
We DO NOT convert RGB files to CMYK as this creates colour discrepancies during the conversion process.
Please understand that you will be responsible for checking that your supplied files are correct.
PLEASE CHECK BEFORE SENDING!
We cannot accept responsibility for errors caused by incorrectly set up files.
We recommend you use a CMYK Rich Black on large areas to ensure a nice solid result.
Heavier stock weights 60 / 40 / 40 / 100
Lighter stock weights 30 / 0 / 0 / 100
Colour will vary during and between each print run, while we make every effort to minimise colour variation there are many factors beyond our control that affect colour.
Variations in the paper making process, constraints of printing and even different temperatures can have an effect on the colour of your finished job.
All artwork must have 5mm bleed if you require images to bleed off the edge of the paper.
Trim marks must be included, please ensure that artwork is supplied at the correct finished size.
To minimise cracking on folded jobs, we recommend scoring the fold lines.
We recommend using a dieline from our extensive range of templates. If you require a custom diecut, please contact us directly.
If you choose to create your own die, it is highly recommended to work with a professional forme cutting and design manufacturer.
This enables you to create your dieline, mock it up and test it before laying out your artwork for final print production.
Especially with packaging and presentation folders, this is particularly important as elements such as pockets require gussets to allow for inserted material.
Closure folds and tabs also require careful engineering to serve their purpose.
Even a rough MINI MOCK-UP example will help identify any errors. Also check how your design is affected by the spine, folds/flaps, gussets and closure tabs
When your artwork is laid out, create a new layer called Perforations. Choose a bright colour that is not featured in your artwork [100% Magenta], then draw dashed lines on perforations layer where you intend the perforations to be placed. Turn off layers except perforations and export the files as a 300dpi PDF with trim and bleed marks. Now turn off the perforations layer and export your artwork as a 300dpi PDF with trim and bleed marks.
Self Cover Books are printed throughout on the same paper type and weight for all pages including cover. For example the Cover and Text may be printed on 130gsm – Silk Paper. Please ensure artwork is supplied as individual pages in one PDF.
Odd and Even Pages
When creating artwork, make sure EVEN numbered pages are always on the LEFT hand side & ODD numbered pages are always on the RIGHT hand side.
Please ensure artwork is supplied as individual pages in one PDF.
e.g. – 24pp book should be supplied as one PDF file with 24 Single Pages
Heavier Cover Books are printed on a heavier paper weight compared to the text pages.
For example the Cover may be printed on 360gsm – Gloss Paper and the Text pages are printed on 170gsm – Uncoated Paper.
Please ensure artwork is supplied as TWO separate PDFs.
We may require Cover and Text in one PDF file for HEAVIER COVER BOOKS depending on Press + Print requirements.
