• What’s the difference between Vector Based and Raster Based Graphics?
    Generally speaking, there are two different categories that all art files can be placed into; Vector Based Graphics and Raster Based Graphics. Each category has its list of pros and cons along with limitations of use. Vector Based Graphics are mathematically derived and work well with spot color imaging. The beauty of Vector art is that it can be blown up any size with absolutely no distortion. Raster Based Graphics, also know as Pixel-based graphics, work great when trying to show continuous tones or shading. However, because the art is pixel based, large prints may show some distortion. Below is an exaggerated example of a Vector and Raster based file. Notice how the Vector sample has crisp lines with no “blurriness” or “stair stepping”.
Vector Based Image
Raster Based Image

 

  • What file formats do you accept?
    The most common types of files are: CDR, AI, PSD, EPS, PDF, TIF, JPG.  The most important thing to remember is to make sure that ALL TEXT IS CONVERTED TO CURVES this is the ONLY way to ensure that your files text will stay the same.  CDR, AI, EPS, & PDF files should be sent in VECTOR format.  PSD files should be sent in PSD format with all layers flattend. TIF & JPG images will need to be sent at full size and at 300dpi minimum.
  • What is dpi?
    Dpi refers to the number of dots or pixels per inch and is directly related to file size. A 3″ x 5″ photograph at 72 dpi is inferior in quality when compared to a 3″ x 5″ photograph at 300 dpi. If printed “to size” one might not notice the difference, but when the image is blown up, lower dpi art is immediately noticeable.
  • How will my art “look” once blown up?
    Image quality is directly related to image size and dpi. Decreasing dpi (while keeping the image’s size constant) or increasing the image’s size (while keeping dpi constant) effect print quality in a negative way. We’re willing to go over any quality related questions before any artwork is submitted.
  • I have black text and/or background…What do I need to do get a nice dark black?
    To get a nice dark color when printing black we ask that you use the following CMYK mix:  C-70 M-20 Y-30 K-100
    If you use the plain black fill for your print your blacks will have a purple hue to them.  Using the CMYK mix give will ensure good ink coverage and will provide you with a nice dark black color.
  • I have a blue in my image…what can I do to make sure it doesn’t look purple after printing?
    Since CMYK does not have blue it uses a mix of the Cyan and Magenta to make blue. You must make sure that anything you want in a true blue color has atleast 20% less magenta than cyan in the mix to avoid color issues when printing. If you use the plain blue fill for your print your blue will have a purple hue to them.  Using the CMYK mix give will ensure good ink coverage and will provide you with a nice blue color.
  • Does my artwork need to be “full size” or can I send a scaled down version?
    If sending “true” vector art, a scaled down version of the file will work just fine. With raster based files, ASSI has the ability to “blowup” your image to size. When sending raster based images, it’s important that the highest resolution file is sent.
  • I’m trying to email my artwork but it keeps getting bounced back.
    Our art  email server can handle a file attachments to 50 MB. If your file is larger you can upload it to our FTP site or upload it to a specified FTP site for us to download. Of course, mailing the file is always an option.
  • What color format should I use?
    • When sending art for printing please make sure that it is in CMYK format. This will ensure the best results. These colors will not look the same as what you see on your monitor. Monitors use RGB coloring. Some colors that you see on the monitor or in a PMS chart are not possible to print on a process printer. If there is a color that you need matched please send us a sample and we will give you a proof of the closest possible color that we can get to match it.
  • Coroplast Signs
    • When printing coroplast signs we ask that if you are doing the art in addition to the above requirements you leave a 1″ bleed all the way around any text. Background colors can go to full bleed but you MUST leave 1″ around the edges for any text. This ensure that no text is cut off when we cut the 4’x8′ sheet of printed coroplast down to the size that you are wanting.