FAQs and
Design Tips

What file format do you need?
We work in a variety of formats. Formats we can use are .JPEG, .GIF, .PDF, .AI, .EPS, and .TIFF.

What programs do you use?
We use Adobe Creative Suite 2 for our graphic needs. We use Macromedia Studio 8 for new media and Web design.

What platforms do you use?
We use Macintosh and PC.

What storage media can you accept?
We can take DVD, CD, and Zip.

What resolution do my files need to be?
Please create and send files for inkjet output at a minimum of 100 dpi at full size (final size to be printed). We can accept files with a higher resolution (250-300 dpi) for better printing results, but a minimum of 100 dpi is required. Images from the Internet are usually low resolution, so please call us for directions if supplying us low-resolution images. Additional charges may apply if artwork needs to be rendered for printing purposes from low-resolution files. Please read our design Resolution tips section for more information.

What are vector files?
Vector images are created with programs such as Adobe Illustrator and Macromedia Freehand. They are based on mathematical algorithms, their advantage is they're resolution independent. This means images can be scaled up (enlarged) without a loss of quality (no loss of resolution when the image is made larger). This type of file is great for logos, graphic artwork, and trademarks.

May I send vector images?
Yes, we can accept vector files saved in PDF or native Adobe Illustrator.

What are bitmap files?
Bitmap images are pixel based and are best for continuous tone images, such as photographic work. This type of file is resolution dependent. This means that when the image is made larger, the resolution decreases. It also means that lower resolution images (lower than 100dpi) will not print well. You'll need to send a high resolution image so that you receive the best results for printing. Scanners and digital cameras will produce bitmap images.

What is a color mode?
This refers to the color space that a file defines. RGB color mode is used for monitors, cameras, and scanners. You can send your files to us in RGB. CMYK is a color mode for process printing. Your desktop printer uses CMYK, but normally, your computer can print to your desktop without converting the file to RGB because print drivers make the conversion. To find out more about color, visit Color Modes for more information.

What color mode do you prefer?

Please submit your files to us in RGB. Why? RGB has a larger color gamut with more information (smaller file sizes than CMYK also). The Eco-SoL inkjet printer we use is actually better at describing CMYK from your RGB file than if the file were converted to CMYK before printing.

Why do my colors look different between my monitor and the print version of my files?
Color monitors can describe millions of colors. Print items cannot. They can describe only a fraction of the colors you see on your monitor. Monitors are undependable sources due to the degrading properties of both LCD and CRT tubes. One more consideration is that color profiles can differ from file to file and also differ from monitor to monitor. Click here for a comparison chart.

Do I need to include my fonts when I send my artwork?
Fonts are tricky. To see the artwork you supply to us exactly the same as you do on your own computer, either we need to have the same exact fonts you used from your system (packaged with your files), or the fonts need to be converted to outlines, paths, or curves (depending on the terminology of the application used) before you save us a copy. If you have any questions, please contact us, and we'll be happy to answer any of your questions.