Submission of Files

For hard copies we accept CDs, DVDs and thumb drives. For electronic copies we strongly encourage uploading files here through the upload page on our website. Other options include email (artroom@graphicimpactltd.com) for small files (50MB or less) and a file sharing service such as hightail/dropbox/box for files larger than 50Mb.

Artwork File Formats

We recommend the following file formats for best results:

• Adobe Acrobat (.pdf)
• Adobe Illustrator (.ai or .eps) (include supporting links and fonts)
• Adobe Photoshop (.psd or .tif)

Other formats may be accepted depending on the job requirements. Please consult with us if you have any questions.

Additional File Requirements

Imported art elements should be linked and not embedded. Update all links/paths and supply them along with the output file.

Fonts should be converted to outlines as much as possible. If an area of font is not converted to outlines, be sure to include both screen and printer fonts.

Printed copies of your final artwork are appreciated for use as a guide. If using a scaling measurement, please be sure to indicate it.

When using dielines or i-cut pattern, include the PDF with the die-line clearly indicated relative to the image.

All unused layers and elements within each layer should be deleted to reduce the file size.

The minimum bleed for all sides of art is .25 inch.

If adjustments including colour may be required, please provide a layered image file.

Image Sizes and Resolution

Ideal output size resolution should be 75 – 150 ppi/dpi, however if a piece is 48" x 48" or smaller, 100 - 200 ppi/dpi is preferred. We recommend that all images in your file should be the same resolution.

Please note that for supersized jobs (billboards, trailer wraps, building wraps, etc), the image may be larger than the max size allowed by the software. Illustrator has a max canvas size of 226in x 226in for example. In these scenarios please scale the image to 25% of actual size at 300 ppi/dpi.

Gradients

When using gradients, please specify both the beginning and ending PMS colours. Gradients created in a vector format tend to band more than gradients created in Photoshop. Gradients that band the most are those that cover a short tonal range in a long dimension.

Colour

Keep all images in their original colour space. If RGB, do not convert to CMYK. If CMYK, leave them in the CMYK working colour space. As a general rule, use RGB colour build for Photoshop and CMYK for Illustrator.

Specify all spot colours as Pantone Solid Coated except for Black. For process Black use CMYK values of 75-75-75-100, and not RGB.

Metallic colours are not reproducible using CMYK inks.

If colour matching is critical then please provide a physical sample.

Other Considerations

If the team at Graphic Impact notices unusual discrepancies or errors in artwork, you will be contacted for troubleshooting and resolution. Our aim is to provide you with a product and a result that we can both be proud of.