REQUIRED SPECIFICATIONS

Page Layout Programs (QuarkXpress, Adobe Indesign)
Our preferred file format is PDF. Charges may apply for non-PDF files or damaged PDFs. All final files must be a PDF or in a page layout program. Please include all fonts and make sure that all images are within the specifications set out below

PDF
PDF files can be used. All PDF pages must be the correct size and in the same PDF
file. The front and back of your document must be on different pages. Printer or crop marks are not needed.
The pdf should be the final size or the final size plus bleed. Extra art board space and info slugs are not needed
When Distilling the PDF make sure images are 300 DPI and CMYK. Also make sure fonts are embedded in the PDF.
To See Sample PDF Files CLICK HERE.

Other Applications
Other applications include Illustrator, Photoshop, and Microsoft Word.
We use Macintosh and pc computers and can handle most files.
If you have an application that is not listed please call 630.307.7100.

Fonts
All Postscript and Screen fonts must be included with your files. Please include
TrueType or Open Face Type Fonts for PC and Macintosh Fonts with Mac Files.
Do not compress Mac fonts with a pc this often corrupts the fonts and makes
them unusable.

Images
Our preferred file formats are “.tif”, “.eps” or “. jpg”. These are cross-platform
formats and ensure the highest quality print. When saving “. jpg” files, please make
sure that there is no compression set to your image. Do not include screen angles
or transfer functions on any images. Resolution should be 300 dpi and color mode
should be CMYK. Duotones should also be converted to CMYK.

Variable Printing
If variable printing is desired, page layout programs may be preferred. PC fonts are
used in our variable programs. Please keep this in mind when planning your project.
Database files for variable printing must be either Tab delimited, Comma delimited .txt files
or .CSV files in ASCII format. If there are variable images or graphics elements, the position of
these images must be included. Also make sure all design elements are in the correct color and
size in your document.

HP INDIGO & IGEN Sizes & Bleed
The Indigo uses a 12” x 18” press sheet, with a maximum printing area of 11.75” x 17.25”.
Design with a bleed if you need elements to print to the edge. The Igen uses a range from 7x7 to 14x20 sheet
The maximum printing area includes bleed and we also suggest that you incorporate a 1/4” type safety for
essential pictures or text. If no bleed is provided pieces are cut short to eliminate “white edges”
In some cases bleed maybe removed to utilize our paper sizes and optimize press performance.
Please inform your sales representative if this maybe an issue.

Proofs
Please supply a hard copy to be used as a “Mark up Proof” especially if color is to be matched ,
and a “Folding Dummy” when applicable

Supplying Files
Your artwork can be sent to us digitally via our FTP Site.
Please compress your jobs for faster transfer. CDs are also welcome.
Emailed files should be compressed and pdfs need to be high resolution yet
small enough if sent separately.
Your artwork can be sent to us digitally via our FTP Site.
Please compress your jobs for faster transfer.