+ What are the guidelines for supplying files?
- Upon approval of the prototype, IPAK will supply you with an electronic template for you to build your files to. Please follow all markings on the template in regards to bleed and knock out areas for glue flaps.
- All files should be supplied as application files (Quark, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.) and must include ALL fonts (both screen and printer) needed to complete the job. All art files must also be supplied, preferably in EPS or TIFF formats.
- Although we prefer MacIntosh compatible files we are equipped to handle IBM formatted files as well.
- All files should then be collected and saved to disk. For your convenience IPAK can accept a wide variety of media such as CD ROM’s, ZIPs, Imation SuperDisks, JAZ Disks, and floppies.
- Along with the disk that you are supplying for output, please send a set of color lasers for IPAK to compare their output proofs to. (If files are being pick-up electronically from and FTP site, please email IPAK a final PDF of what the file should look like). Also. Please include a memo or make notes directly on the proof with any special instructions, such as, number of colors, list of PMS colors (where applicable), and any other special instructions that you would like us to follow.
- Please keep in mind that IPAKs digital proofs are not completely color accurate. If you have a color critical job, please specify that you need a color accurate proof for approval and we will glad to accommodate you.
- All proofs will be sent to you with a proof label. Please sign off on this label and mark any corrections that are needed.
+ How should I prepare my files?
The following are just a few tips for file preparation that we have found to be very helpful in expediting your job through the production process:
- When creating vignettes, please create them in Photoshop. They will print much smoother than those created in Quark. Please also keep in mind that vignettes will print smoother when created using a minimum of 2 colors. Single color vignettes will band on press.
- Please keep templates on a separate layer if you must use them in Illustrator or Photoshop. Ideally all art files should be created in either Photoshop or Illustrator and then compiled in Quark along with the template and any type. Type created in Photoshop tends to cause issues in output, please place as much type in Quark as possible, and, if you must, create all “special” type in Illustrator.
Bleeds – please add a minimum of 1/8″ bleed (1/4″ is preferable) to all files.- Please make sure that all supplied art files are HiRes. Many times we find that art that looks okay on screen is actually LoRes.
- When supplying fonts, please avoid sending multiple suitcases of the same font. This causes conflicts in Suitcase and could delay proof output.
