Creating a page that has a full bleed (ink all the way up to the edge of the sheet) requires that the page be printed on a larger size of paper. To set up your file to accommodate a bleed, be sure to extend the bleed area 1/8″ beyond all four edges of the page. This will allow plenty of room for trimming and eliminate any of the paper showing at the edge. Please refer to each product estimate page to determine if bleeds are allowed on the type of project you are printing.
On products where bleeds are not allowed, make sure to leave an area around all four sides where there is no copy within a ½ inch of the edges.
If your document requires perforations or folds, please indicate them in the bleed area of your artwork with a small tick mark.
Be sure to include both screen and printer fonts among the files you send us, including any fonts used in linked graphics.
Be careful when using colored text. Minute misalignment on the press can cause CMYK inks to not align perfectly in small text (10 point or smaller) or in white text on a colored or black background (drop-out copy). This misalignment can make small text look blurry. If you need to use small colored text, it is best to keep it one of the true CMYK colors; black is the preferred choice. Text larger than 10 points will print clear and sharp with any color you choose.
If your design calls for screened text, especially for small text, avoid using light screens. Instead try to make screened values at least 60% and try to make at least one of the inks (preferably cyan or magenta) 100%.
When using large areas of black coverage, please set up your files with these values: 60% cyan, 40% magenta, 40% yellow and 100% black. Small text and rules should be left at 100% black.
