Software
Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign) are preferred.
While Quantum Graphics can accept most any file format, file manipulation and digital output are most effective using the above.
File Format
When possible, we request that all native file formats be supplied with each project including any layered files used in creating the final artwork. Quantum Graphics utilizes a variety of digital and traditional print technologies. Furnishing these files provides our operators “file manipulation” flexibility which may be required to achieve desired color, trapping and content results.
- Please, no Microsoft files (Powerpoint or Corel).
- PDF files should be saved for Press Quality with Illustrator editing capabilities. PDF files supplied without these settings will produce unknown results.
Color Space
All electronic files should be supplied in CMYK color space. Quantum Graphics will convert all RGB files to CMYK, but there may be an additional charge for this activity and unknown color results may occur.
Raster Images (Pixel based)
As a general rule, all supplied Raster Images should have a minimum resolution of 300 ppi at 1/2 of the final output size. For “larger format” projects, a resolution of 300 ppi at 1/3 size may be sufficient. Please contact a Quantum Sales Representative for additional information regarding specific digital or traditional screen print resolution questions.
Fonts
Please include all fonts used in each project to ensure crisp, clean text.
File Information
Please provide a comprehensive listing of each file supplied including type of software and version used, file size, final trim size and colors used. Naturally, the more information we have upfront, the more efficient we will be in processing your project.
Hard Copy Proof
A content approved color laser or inkjet proof is requested for each file supplied. If files are supplied using the Quantum Graphics File Transfer System, we request that you include an approved PDF file with your transfer. Upon receipt of electronic artwork, Quantum Graphics will output a color laser proof. This proof will be compared with your furnished artwork to check the integrity of your files and our workstations.
Digital Press Proofs
Quantum Graphics will furnish a digital press proof for Digital Print projects upon request. Please be sure to specify a digital press proof on your estimate request and purchase order.
In addition, please specify if a Contract Proof will be supplied for a specific color match when utilizing our Flatbed Digital Print Technology. While Quantum Graphics will make every effort to achieve your desired color results, there can be color matching limitations with Digital Print Technology due to the wide variety of substrates available and color gamut variances with Digital UV Inks. We continually work closely with our clients to determine which print process and digital workflow is best for each project to ensure that only the highest quality print products are delivered to the marketplace.
Achieving Spot Colors in Digital Printing
Our RIP systems feature a Spot Color Replacement function when certain Pantone colors are desired. Please have Pantone colors labeled as a Spot Color from the Pantone Solid Coated book to accurately achieve these results.
Finishing
Please provide a minimum 1/8” bleed and have a minimum of 1/8” safe area inside of the trim. For items cut to shape, please provide die lines that are clearly marked in the file and can be separated from the image along with any other specifications. This includes hole diameter, corner radius, score lines, etc.