File Preperation Guides

To avoid production delays it is very important to provide us with print ready files, either as PDFs or in their native format. A very basic outline for file prepreration can be found below. For a more detailed description please download the PDF guides found below.

• Include an 0.125" bleed outside the trim of the document
• All colors set to CMYK and/or spot (convert RGB files to CMYK)
• Use the same ‘type’ of spot color consistantly. E.g. PMS 3265 CV or 3265 U, but not both
• Bitmap file resolution (CMYK, duotone and grayscale graphics) should be at least 300 dpi at placed size
• Embed all fonts when creating PDFs or convert all fonts to outlines before creating the PDF
• Use descriptive but 'standard' file naming conventions:
  • Use a three letter extension on all files (e.g., “.tif” ".qxd")
  • Length: 32 or fewer characters, including the extension
  • Use only one period in a file name, and position it before the three-letter extension.
  • Use only the characters from the following sets: a-z, 0-9, underscore ( _ ) and dash (-)
• Delete all unused spot colors. Convert spot colors not used as seperate inks to CMYK
• If providing 'native' files (quark, indesign) provide all linked graphics, embeded files, and ALL fonts used
• Before uploading multiple files, use a file compression utility to create one compressed folder

Downloadable file prep guides

Preflight checklist

Preparing files for print

Creating print ready PDF files with MS Publisher

BP Color Settings for Adobe Creative Suite

Send a file

How to send a file to Bacchus

Envelope Size Guide

Downloadable PDF envelope guide

PDF Templates

To use PDF product templates with Quark, Indesign or Illustrator:

1. Set the page dimensions of the layout program to the final trim size of the project.
2. Place the PDF template in the layout program.
3. Center the PDF graphic on the page.
4. Allow for an .125 inch bleed as indicated on the PDF.
5. Place guidelines over the folding lines or mailing guides indicated on the PDF.
6. Delete the PDF and design your page.