FILE SETUP GUIDELINES

Vector Images .eps, .ai

Vector based images are preferredwhen possible because of their quality, file size and more accurate colors.

ALL FONTS SHOULD BE CONVERTED TO OUTLINES.

All vector based files should be saved in CMYK
Files must be sized or scaled to size correctly.

Raster Images .tif, .jpg

Files should be created/saved at actual size and 75-100 dpi, the file should be around 50 mb. If you create your file at 1/2 scale, increase the resolution accordingly to 150-200 dpi.

For smaller, high-resolution prints, you can increase the resolution up to 300 dpi.
Keep in mind that color matching with raster images is usually more difficult and may be more expensive.

More detailed information below

In order to keep prices low and maintain quick turnaround times, we need to outline certain responsibilities for our customers with regard to file preparation. Orders received varying from these specifications are subject to delays and/or additional charges to put them into a conforming condition. We will prep or ‘fix’ the files you send us at $75.00/hour. To avoid extra charges, please follow the guidelines below as closely as possible.

Accepted File Formats:

We use Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop for all file prep work. You may send us any type of file compatible with either program.

Raster Images:

Images should be flattened and sent as .tif files (.jpg images will work, but will usually be compressed more resulting in poor image quality). For standard size banners, files should be set at full size and 75-100 dpi. This should produce a file around 50 mb. Generally, files over 50 mb are overkill and only serve to slow down the process. If you create your file at 1/2 scale, increase the resolution accordingly to 150-200 dpi. For smaller, high-res prints, you can increase the resolution up to 300 dpi. Keep in mind that color matching with raster images is usually more difficult and may be more expensive.

Vector Images: Vector based images are preferred when possible because of their quality, file size and more accurate colors. Files should be sent as .ai or .eps with ALL FONTS CONVERTED TO OUTLINES. (Most of the problems we see come from missing fonts!) If you are using a program other than Illustrator you should be able to export your file as an .eps with fonts converted to outlines or curves.

File Preparation:
All vector based files should be saved in CMYK. Any RGB photographic raster images can be sent in RGB. Files must be sized or scaled correctly. For scaled-down files, always include enlarging instructions (such as “enlarge 200%”).

You don’t need to include any bleed or extra space for finishing in your file. We will add extra space for hems or pole pockets. Please design your 2′, 3′, 4′ and 5′ banners to finish 2″ under the roll width (2′ banners should be sized at 22″, 3′ banners should be sized at 34″, etc.). Banners that need to finish at a full 2′, 3′, 4′ or 5′ may cost more to cover the extra vinyl that is wasted.

Sending Your Files:

Small files (under 10 mb) can be emailed to info@flagspolesbanners.com

For larger files contact us and we will send you further instructions.

If you send your files to us electronically, please use a compression program such as Stuffit or WinZip to archive all of your files into one compressed folder. This helps to ensure that we can get all of your files intact, and can help in uploading time. Be sure to call after your files have finished transferring to confirm that we received them.

You may also mail your files on a disk. We prefer you send files on a CD-ROM. Please let us know if you want your disk back and make sure it is clearly labeled. We won’t return your CD’s unless you ask.

Order Details:
Please be sure to include all the details of your order, including media (vinyl, decal, paper, etc.), quantity, size, finishing (hems, grommets, etc.) and any other special instructions (color matching, deadlines, etc.).

Proofs:
We suggest sending a proof with your file, but we don’t require it. Proofs allow us to verify that files open and print correctly. Proofs can be printed copies or a flattened .jpg, .gif, .tif or .pdf file. If you choose not to send a proof, you will be responsible for any file problems that could have been caught had a proof been sent.

Colors & Color Matching:
Unless you request otherwise, colors will be printed AS IS, without any alteration on our part. Remember that the printed colors and the colors seen on a monitor will usually be a little (or, in some cases, a lot) different, so you may get unexpected results. You will be responsible for problems due to color errors if you don’t request color matching.

For approximate color matching, there is no extra charge. Examples of approximate color matching are: “It just needs to be a dark red” or “The blue needs to be close to PMS 286.” We will make sure the colors are close, but there are no guarantees or refunds.

Exact color matching fees normally start at $30.00 and are billed at our hourly rate of $75.00. For exact color matching, you must provide PMS numbers or a physical color swatch. You may also be required to approve an actual printed proof before we complete your job, so plan on a few extra days for jobs with color matching. Because some colors are easier to match than others, we may be able to waive the $30.00 minimum. Please contact us for details and prices. We can usually quote you a color matching price in advance.