Pre-Press Specifications

Recommended File Format - PDF Files

Interprint recommends PDF files produced with the latest version of Acrobat Distiller, created using the default setting "Press Quality". The accuracy of the processed data (your supplied files) depends on the features that are used in the creation of the document (i.e. transparency, color management, overprinting, etc). Even using Adobe’s Acrobat Distiller to create a PDF file using the "Press Quality" setting will not guarantee the file will process exactly the way it appears on the monitor. There are different issues that can arise depending on the platform (Macintosh or PC), the software used, the version of that software and even the features within the software used to create the document.

Natives Files Can Be More Problematic

Customers who supply native files instead of PDF files run a greater risk of problems with the way their files process. Issues with fonts, placed images, transparency, and overprinting are more common with this traditional postscript workflow.

When Reviewing Proofs - If you do not mark changes or errors on your proofs that need to be made, errors will show in the finished printed product. There is no substitution to checking your proofs carefully to ensure accuracy.

Do Not Keep The Proofs - All hard copy proofs need to be returned before we can proceed with the printing and binding of your project. This includes both the Epson color proof and folded/stitched Gerber proof.

Customer Supplied Media

• PC and Mac.
• You may submit print files by: CD, DVD, or via our ftp site at www.PrinterUSA.com
• Please provide hard copy dummy or mock up at the time you submit your files so we may compare to our proofs.
  

File Formats We Process

• The number one recommended file format to supply to Interprint - PDF files.
• Native file formats from popular desktop publishing software: QuarkXpress, InDesign.

Print Documents

• Only send the documents that you want us to output. Delete all other files from the disk/media you supply to Interprint.
• Make sure the document is the actual size being printed. If not, please specify enlargement or reduction for imaging.
• DO NOT build black type, (or other elements intended to just print in black) in 4-color process. This will cause undesirable printing results such as color variation and poor registration in the end printed product. If you need any assistance in setting up your files correctly, please contact us directly before you start your project.
  
• Gather all "output documents", "fonts" and "supports" and place them into three individual folders.
• When creating a book, have all the pages in one document as single pages, not spreads.
• Always supply laser prints with your job so we may compare them to the proofs.

Fonts

• Supply all screen and printer fonts, or truetype fonts used in the job and linked supports.
• Avoid assigning type attributes (bold, italic, bold italic); instead, use the correct font.
  This will avoid using a type style you do not have an actual screen and printer font for.
• Avoid Multiple Master fonts.

Print Graphics

• Bleeds: Any image that bleeds off the page must extend at least 1/8" (.125").
• Live Area: This is your graphics and type that cannot bleed or it will be trimmed into during finishing/bindery. All type and graphics not intended to bleed, must be a minimum of 3/16" clear and free from the head, foot, face, gutter or trim area.
• All photos must be at least 300 dpi. All line art or bitmap images needs to be 1200 dpi.
• Supply all fonts and placed images with your linked supports.
• Do not embed graphics, unless you are using Corel Draw.
  If graphics are embedded, supply the original graphics with the job.
• Do not attach ICC profiles to an RGB image
• Remove extra channels from Photoshop files.

Proofing Or Revising Documents & Files At The Proof Stage

Documents / File - If a change is made on a page of a book or catalog, please note that the entire page may be re-ripped. Therefore, it is imperative that you re-check all information of the entire new proofs. Do not just look at your change, review everything on the new proof for accuracy.