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Preparing Your Artwork Files For Submission
We understand that there are many variables when it comes to creating a successful artwork print. To ensure that your display graphics print successfully the first time, please follow our artwork specifications. - File Types
We currently accept Adobe Illustrator CS5 (.AI), Adobe Photoshop CS5 (.PSD), Jpeg files(.JPG), Tiff files (.TIF), Encapsulated PostScript (.EPS), and any previous formats of the native programs. We do not accept Adobe InDesign PDF files due to issues with fonts and effects. If you must submit an InDesign file, please include all native files and convert all fonts to "Outlines" or "Curves". If this option is not available, include all fonts along with the InDesign file in your submission. - Design Templates
Submit as per our design templates. The appropriate template for your chosen product can be found on its product page. If you cannot find the appropriate template, you may email support@expodepot.com for further assistance. - Scale
Artwork should be made to scale. The scale of artwork should be mentioned within documentation or on the artwork itself. We recommend making all artwork 100% of size, if possible. - Process Color
Please set all artwork to CMYK color mode. It is best to be designed with the CMYK setting in place, as switching color modes may alter the colors you have chosen. - Specific Pantone Colors
Selecting Pantone colors is strongly recommended where possible, especially for Logos and other Corporate Identity. It is recommended that you use the Pantone color swatches within your artwork, in addition to having color call outs on the artwork itself. We recommend that you choose from Pantone Solid Uncoated color chart. - Color Matching
It is important that you provide color matching information with your art files. Specify Pantone colors to your designer, or send a color copy, proof, or color chip to color match to. You may also include referenced Pantone colors in your art files. When Pantone equivalent colors are not available, proofs are strongly recommended to review colors. Contact us for further information regarding proofs. - Resolution and Vector Artwork
For best results, use Vector Artwork (i.e. created in Adobe Illustrator) where it is possible. Size, quality, and resolution is not an issue with Vector Artwork. However, where vector artwork is not possible (i.e. Photos, complex graphics, etc.) we recommend no less than 200 dpi (in actual size.) - Embedded and Linked Artwork
We recommend that you use Linked files instead of Embedded files. However, if an embedded image is within the artwork, please include the file with your upload package. We recommend no less than 200 dpi (in actual size) for embedded and linked files. Please make sure that all embedded and linked artwork is set to CMYK color mode. - Drop shadows, Transparency, and Other Effects
Especially in Vector Artwork programs like Adobe Illustrator, results vary on printed matter when it comes effects such as a drop shadow, outer glow, and other transparency effects. It is recommended that you rasterize all effects before submitting your artwork. Layered bitmap graphics (i.e. Adobe Photoshop) should be flattened. - Text and Fonts
In Vector Artwork files, we recommend that all text be converted to 'Outlines' or 'Curves'. In layered bitmap files, we recommend that text layers be rasterized. Otherwise, please include the fonts with the upload package. - Concerning Fabric Compound Structures
Mapping art to a compound shape (i.e. a Hanging Fabric Structure) requires our design team to manipulate your art so that the distortion effects are kept to a minimum. In these instances, art must be prepared in a rectangular shape. We strongly recommend using the appropriate template for your chosen fabric display, although these templates are to be used only as a guideline. * Although we do check artwork before sending it to production, we are not responsible for poor quality graphics printed from artwork not to our specifications. How To Submit Your Artwork Files
The safest way to ensure that we receive your files uncorrupted is to put all your finalized artwork in one folder and stuff or zip them using Stuffit, WinZip or another archiving program.
Please name your archive file in the following format:
(CustomerName)_(NameOfProduct)_FinalArtwork(Date).
Be sure to make your file name "Web-Friendly", meaning that it contains underscores instead of spaces.
- Files Up To 3 GB In Size
Files that are 2 GB or less should be uploaded to our FTP site.We recommend using an FTP program such as Fetch, FileZilla, Cyberduck or Cute FTP. If possible, include a low resolution artwork proof in PDF or JPG format so that our design staff can reference them easier. Please see our FTP info above. - Files More Than 3 GB In Size
For large files more than 3 GB in size, it is best to burn them to CD or DVD and ship to us via your preferred shipping method. Use the following mailing address:
ExpoDepot, Inc.
Attn: Preflight Department
2700 Grand Avenue
Bellmore, NY 11710
*As an alternative, you are welcome to post your files directly on our FTP server.
FTP Artwork Upload Information
Address: ftp://webexpodepot.com
Username: ExpoDepot1
Password: Artwork12
Once logged in, create a folder with your name and upload your files. Please be sure to send an email tosupport@expodepot.com to notify us that you have uploaded artwork to our server.
If you have any other questions not answered here, you can email us at support@expodepot.com or call our toll free number (888)736-2490
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