You've got questions, we've got answers!
Whether it's your first or 500th time working with us, we are here to answer any questions that may arise during your project. If you don't find the answers you need in our Frequently Asked Questions below, please Contact Us.
We have also included a Glossary of terms to assist you in finding the answers you need. This important resource will help you.
1. What type of products and services do you provide?
We are a full-color printer that offers in-house mailing, fulfillment and specialized bindery services. To review a complete listing of what we can offer you, please check out the Services area of our website.
2. How do I go about getting an estimate from you?
Our website offers an easy-to-use estimate request form which you can use to request a quote from us. Or, if you would prefer to speak directly with one of our customer service representatives, you can give us a call at 607-729-2477.
3. Can you work with Corel Draw or Publisher files?
If you've designed your files in one of these programs, you'll need to make them print-ready in order for us to use them. Just follow these helpful tips and you'll be able to send us the right file for press.
COREL DRAW:
Save your Corel Draw file as an Adobe Illustrator EPS or Adobe Acrobat PDF, being sure to:
- Embed all your Images (be sure none are "linked")
- Convert all your text/copy fonts to outlines
- Use the "export" command to save the file as an Illustrator EPS or Adobe Acrobat PDF
PUBLISHER:
You will need to have the full version of Adobe Acrobat PDF and follow the steps below:
- Under File / Print, select Adobe PDF writer
- Under Properties, select Press Quality and Save your PDF
4. 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 pixelated and blocky when printed.
Also note that you should save all photos in CMYK mode, not RGB mode. Images saved in RGB mode may not print properly or may print in different colors than you expect to see. If you are unable to save your image in CYMK mode, please let us know.
5. What is a proof and why is it important that I look at it?
In printing terms, a proof is a one-off copy of your document after all modifications and printing setup processes have been completed. It is your last and best opportunity to make sure that the print job comes out the way you want. By carefully inspecting the proof, you can help us ensure an accurate, flawless delivery of your print job.
6. What is the Pantone Matching System (PMS)?
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. These color numbers are understood around the world, and are used to communicate precise color values in the printing industry.The use of PMS allows us to precisely match the colors you specify and maintain color consistency throughout the printing process.
7. 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.
When a color is selected from the RGB model that is out of the range of the CMYK model, the application chooses what it thinks is the closest color that will match. Programs like Adobe Photoshop will allow you to choose which color will be replaced. Others may not. Click here to read more about the differences between RGB and CMYK.
8. Is white considered a printing color?
Not typically. Because white is the default color of paper, it is simply recognized as the absence of any ink. However, when using colored paper, white ink may be used if any text or graphic requires it.
9. What file format should I use when submitting my electronic document for printing?
PDF (Portable Document Format) is the most common and preferred file format for submitting digital documents. With the installation of a PDF print driver on your computer, virtually any program can generate a PDF file suitable for printing. Both commercial and free PDF print drivers are available online for download from different sources.
10. 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.