Here you'll find answers to common questions our clients ask. Start by selecting one of the links below. If you don’t see what you need – call or contact us online.
- What type of products and services do you provide?
- How do I go about getting an estimate from you?
- What file format should I use when submitting my electronic document for printing?
- Once I submit the documents, how long will it take to finish my job?
- Why do the printed colors look different from the colors on my screen?
- What is the Pantone Matching System?
- What is a proof and why is it important?
- At what resolution should I save my photos and graphics?
- What is Adobe PDF JobReady?
- Tips on file format setups
- What does personalization mean?
- What do I need to provide for variable data projects?
- What forms of payment do you accept?
- What is variable data printing?
- What are the ‘standard’ blueprint sheet sizes?
- Can you scan and save my files to a CD or flash drive?
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We are a full service shop and offer a wide range of products and services. To see a full listing and description of what we can offer you, check out the Products & Services area in the Customer Service Section of our website. If you do not see an item listed, just ask us! We accept custom orders. On the rare occasion that we are not a good fit, we can probably direct you to the right place for your job.
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Check out our online estimate request form while you're here, or give us a call. Please have your project details handy so we can give you the most accurate estimate.
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What file format should I use when submitting my electronic document for printing?
Print ready PDF is the most common and preferred file type. If you have another file type that cannot be converted to a PDF, send us what you have and we will see what we can do.
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Once I submit the documents, how long will it take to finish my job?
Simple jobs are often completed in less than an hour. Some jobs, however, may take several days to complete depending on their complexity and size. We always strive to provide an accurate estimate of the turnaround time for each job we do. And we’ll always work with you to find ways to complete your project when you need it.
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Why do the printed colors look different from the colors on my screen?
In short, printers and monitors produce colors in different ways. Monitors use the RGB (red, green, blue) color model, which usually supports a wider spectrum of colors. Printers use the CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) color model, which can reproduce most—but not all—of the colors in the RGB color model. Depending on the equipment used, CMYK generally matches 85–90% of the colors in the RGB model. To ensure accurate and consistent color reproduction, please use Pantone colors where applicable.
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What is the Pantone Matching System?
The Pantone Matching System (PMS) is a color reproduction standard in which colors all across the spectrum are each identified by a unique, independent number. The use of PMS allows us to precisely match colors and maintain color consistency throughout the printing process.
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What is a proof and why is it important?
A proof is essentially a preview of your job. We print out a one-off copy of your final document for your review, and it is your last and best chance to ensure that your printing project turns out as you'd envisioned. Things to look for in your proof include color output, image quality, and whether you are satisfied with your specified material or would like to switch to another option.
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At what resolution should I save my photos and graphics?
Resolution should be set to 300 dpi. Pictures and graphics pulled from the internet are often low resolution, typically 72 dpi or 96 dpi. Avoid these graphics, as they will appear pixilated and blocky when printed. Enlarge your PDF to 100%: what you see is what you get in terms of print quality. Images that appear grainy at 100% on the computer screen will appear the same way on paper.
Also note that you should save all photos in CMYK mode, not RGB mode when possible. Images saved in RGB mode may not print properly. If you are unable to save your image in CYMK mode, please let us know.
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What is Adobe PDF JobReady?
JobReady is a free Adobe program, available for download at our website, that automatically makes a PDF from your file, creates an order form and will send us your file directly from you desktop. All you need to do is follow the simple installation instructions. We promise once you have used Job Ready you will never want to use another application to transfer PDFs again.
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Tips on file format setups
Many layout programs have collecting or packaging functions that will automatically collect your document, fonts, all art including and a report. When possible, it is recommended to use these functions because without any or all of these elements we will be unable to print your postcard.
• Enclose all screen fonts and printer fonts
• Include all placed images
• Make sure your files are set with proper bleed, trim and safety areas.
BLEED: All art trimming off the edge MUST be pulled out 1/8” beyond the trim line
TRIM: This is the guideline where the card will be cut
SAFETY: All art and text within this safety area will assure that nothing will be trimmed off during the cutting process. A 1/4” guide in from the trim should work fine. -
What does personalization mean?
Personalization is another term for variable data—technology for printing documents so that each piece is personalized to the specific recipient. Examples include addressing envelopes or customizing a promotional campaign so that each mailer has information unique to the recipient.
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What do I need to provide for variable data projects?
In short, we will need a spreadsheet file with each piece of data in separate fields. Excel or CSV files are the safest bet. If you are planning a variable data project and are unsure of how to format your data, contact us for guidance.
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What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, company check, and all major credit cards.
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What is variable data printing?
Variable data printing is technology for printing documents so that each piece is personalized to the specific recipient. At the most basic level, this means personalizing a name and address. But for real impact, many projects include unique graphics and content that speaks directly to the recipient.
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What are the ‘standard’ blueprint sheet sizes?
‘A’ size drawings are 8.5”x11” or 9”x12”
‘B’ size drawings are 11”x17” or 12”x14”
‘C’ size drawings are 18”x24” or 17”x22”
‘D’ size drawings are 24”x36” or 22”x34”
‘E’ size drawings are 30”x42” or 34”x44”
‘F’ size drawings are 36”x48” -
Can you scan and save my files to a CD or flash drive?
Yes. We can scan drawings and save electronic versions to CDs or flash drives for your archives.