Graphic Design Guideline

If you plan to upload your own design files, please review the following specifications carefully. Following these guidelines will save headaches later on and will ensure that images print sharply, fonts and colors display properly, and that layouts adhere to the correct print specifications.


Acceptable File Types

3Q Printing press can accept various format of files such as Adobe PDF, TIFF, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, eps created from Adobe Illustrator, and Corel Draw, Microsoft Publisher files and Microsoft Office Suite files. If you are working with other formats, and you are not sure if it can be converted, please give us a call and we can further assist you.

Please make sure your design program is set up as close as possible to the specifications detailed below. back to top

Creating Your Own PDF File

Many graphics design applications allow you to save or export your file as a PDF. If you are converting your native file to a PDF on your own, check the output settings to make sure that: Image compression and/or downsampling options are turned off Any rasterized graphics or type are saved at at least 300 dpi. If the design application you are using has "links" to images, make sure all of your images are embedded in the file.

  • Choose the option to embed fonts
  • Set color to CMYK (not RGB)
  • Using Photos and Other Images

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Print File Dimensions and Specifications

Both sides of each print file must be set up with our specified trim size and inner margin. If your graphics extend to the edge of the design, you must also include a "bleed".

Trim Size

The measurements that determine the actual size of the finished product, also known as "cut size." It is not necessary to provide crop marks to indicate trim size unless you have special instructions for cutting. If this is the case, please contact customer support for additional specifications.

Inner Margin

Because cut lines can vary slightly, all content that is not intended to print to the edge (bleed) must remain inside the inner margin to avoid being trimmed off. It is important that all text and vital graphical element are arranged within the bounds of the inner margin. Please try to keep the important text and images within 1/4 to the edge.

Bleed

The term "bleed" is used in the printing industry to describe a design in which a background color or image extends to the very edge and no white border is desired. Any bleed background images or colors in your print file must extend beyond the trim size. Please allow 1/8 inch all the way around for bleed.
Product Finish Size Bleed included
Regular Postcard 5.5" by 4" 5.75" by 4.25"
Jumbo Postcard 8.25" by 5.5" 8.5" by 5.75"
Business Card 3.5" by 2" 3.75" by 2.25"
Notecard (before folding) 5" by 8.5" 5.25" by 8.75"
Regular Flyer 8.5" by 11" 8.75" by 11.25"
Brochure 8.5" by 11" 8.75" by 11.25"

Print files supplied with incorrect trim sizes, bleeds, or inner margins may result in delay of printing.

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Postcards and USPS Postal Regulations

In order to meet United States Postal Service requirements, certain areas of a postcard must be devoted to addressing, return address and postage. These are detailed on the Postcard Specifications page.

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Reviewing and Ordering Proofs

Reviewing Proof

A low resolution "digital proof" will be sent to you to make sure all content is correct. The color may differ from the print since the computer does not display CMYK.

Ordering a Printed Proof

To see an accurate representation of what your finished product will look like, you may add a printed proof to your order. We will ship the proof to you via overnight UPS, and you will then have the option to either approve or reject the proof. If you approve the proof, your order will move into production. If you reject the proof, you will then be able to either submit a new print file or cancel your order free of charge. We also offer faxed black and white proofs, however, these are not a true representation of color or quality. All proofs are $10 and $20 shipping.

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