Graphic Specifications

AffordableDisplays.com Graphic Specifications

Our Artwork Review and Graphic Proof process is specifically put in place to create a streamlined flow from beginning to end. To help assist in a smooth order process, we strongly suggest to follow our graphic specifications below so that we can produce the best possible display outcome.

abobe-photoshop-version-6.jpg
Adobe Photoshop
Resolution must be created at a minimum of 100-150 dpi at full size.  You may save as a .psd, .pdf or .tif.

abobe-illustrator-version-6.jpg
Adobe Illustrator
Convert all fonts to outlines and embed all images. Make sure overprint is turned off.  You may save as .ai, .eps, or .pdf
Illustrator color tip: use for a Rich Black use these values: C:63, M:52, Y:51, K:100.  DO NOT use C:0, M:0, Y:0, K:100 as it will only produce a dark gray color.

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Adobe InDesign
Convert all fonts to outlines and embed all images.  Preferred method is to save as PDF at ‘High Quality Print’ setting, no compression.

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PDF Adobe Acrobat
All PDF’s must be set to ‘High Quality Print’ setting, no compression.

Files NOT accepted: any low resolution files created for the website use, files created in Word processing programs, or any slide show programs. If you do not have the ability to provide your artwork up to our specifications please just ask how we can help.

Graphic Prep Tips: Please ensure you’ve used a template supplied by our company for the specific product being purchased.  If artwork is provided and our template was not used additional costs may apply to adjust your art file to fit appropriately. Save your artwork file WITHOUT the following items: template showing (turn off template layer and then save), register marks and color bars.

Please ensure you’ve used a template supplied by our company for the specific product being purchased. You may access all our product templates here. A ready to print file would consist of all images embedded, fonts converted to outlines and CMYK color mode. If your artwork contains Pantone references, we will print to the closest possible match. If you are unable to provide a ready to print file, you may take advantage of our professional in-house graphic design team. See Graphic Design Assistance tab below for details.

All files with photo images should be created at 100 - 150 dpi at full print size.  File submitted at lower than 100 dpi may produce a lower quality output. If you are uncertain of the quality of your images, please call us at 800-723-2050 or email us at [email protected]

All files and colors must be created and saved in CMYK mode as all of our products are printed in CMYK ONLY. If converted from RGB to CMYK significant color changes may occur. We cannot print or match to Metallic or Fluorescent colors. PMS colors are used to identify which CMYK formula best approximates to the PMS color requested. Pantone colors may be requested, but exact color matched are not always possible. If no Pantone references are supplied or a color accurate proof is provided, we will print from your artwork and will not be held responsible for inaccurate color reproduction. We rely solely on your approval of the PDF proof as final verification and acceptance of the project.

You may request a PRINTED proof on the job material if you wish to review ACTUAL output coloring and image quality of your artwork. Cost is approx $45—175 (varies per item) and would be sent via FedEx Express Overnight service. An additional fee may apply for color matching. Please call us at 800-723-2050 or email us at [email protected] to inquire about a Printed Proof for your order.

ALL printing projects are subject to a color variation. We do not guarantee color matching or ink density on any PDF screen proofs. Because of differences in equipment, materials, inks and other conditions between color proofing and production operations, a reasonable variation in color between color proofs and the completed job is to be expected. We cannot accept financial responsibility for items approved by you that may be later found in error. 

Adobe Illustrator (.ai or .eps)

Illustrator works well for smaller files, but runs into trouble with larger files. Illustrator was not designed for large format graphics that contain large raster images. However, if a design is vector based it will work at any size without any problems.

Before sending us your files please check for the following:

  • Document Color Mode: CMYK. Do not send in RGB mode.

  • For a Rich Black color use these values: C:63, M:52, Y:51, K:100.
  • Double check the file size and make it equals the final trim print plus bleeds.
  • Convert all your fonts to outlines. Embed all images. Make sure overprint is turned off.
  • Compress your files before sending them to assure a quick file transfer.



Adobe Photoshop (.psd)

Photoshop is not setup for handling bleeds so they must be included in the live image size. Photoshop is a useful tool when designing with photos, but it lacks some capabilities.

Before sending us your files please check for the following:

  • Document Color Mode: CMYK. Do not send in RGB mode.

  • Minimum of 100 DPI at final print size.

  • For a Rich Black color use these values: C:63, M:52, Y:51, K:100.

  • Double check the image size and make it equals the final trim print plus bleeds.

  • Flatten your file before saving - do not send as a layered file.

  • Compress your files before sending them to assure a quick file transfer.



IMAGE RESOLUTION QUALITY

Good Quality:
High quality stock photography
High resolution / high quality scanner
High resolution camera photo

Bad Quality:
Screen capture of video frame
Low quality stock photography
Image saved off a web-page

Graphic Specifications - Image Quality Resolution



FILE EXTENSION DESCRIPTIONS

.ai

Adobe Illustrator (vector file, that may also contain raster images)

.eps

Encapsulated PostScript (Often a vector file, but may also contain raster images)

.jpg or .jpeg

Joint Photographic Experts Group (raster file)

.pdf

Portable Document Format File (page layout file that can contain vector or raster images)

.psd

Adobe Photoshop file (raster file, with the ability to contain smart objects and text)



GRAPHIC DESIGN TERMS

Bleeds: The area extending past the final document size used in trimming.

CMYK: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black. The 4 color process used in printing.

Compression: Using various methods to reduce the file size. Often used to group several files together for ease and protection in uploading and downloading.

DPI: Dots per Inch. Also referred to as PPI (pixels per inch). This is the resolution of a raster image.

Rasterized (raster): These files have a set number of pixels and can not be increased without a reduction in image quality

RGB: Red, Green, Blue. The 3 color process used by monitors to display color.

Vector: These files are created by various programs such as Adobe Illustrator, or InDesign. They use a mathematical formula to create shapes that may be scaled to any size without any change in image quality. They do not have a set number of pixels unless you convert them to a raster file.



UPLOAD YOUR FILE

Prior to sending your completed files, please begin by placing your order with us and obtaining an Order Number.  View How to Order details now.  

We have an online Artwork Upload FTP to send us your artwork files for printing. Once your file has successfully uploaded, you will receive a confirmation by e-mail starting the E-Proof process.

Upload tip:

To ensure your artwork file is recognized by our team members please name your file in the following format: YourCompanyName_YourOrderNumber_ItemNumber.file extension. Any files named a generic name such as "banner.pdf" will not be downloaded as precautionary safeguard to our computer systems.  

Any and all artwork files submitted are physically checked by our knowledgeable graphics team members. All files submitted are rigorously reviewed for accuracy in dimensions, overall quality, and CMYK color mode. If any portion of your art file received will produce a questionable result we will contact you prior to sending the final E-Proof. This provides you with a chance to make any changes, if you choose to do so.  We are not responsible for proofreading, image quality/resolution decisions and/or correcting minor file errors.  

We provide an online PDF E-Proof provided is REQUIRED TO BE APPROVED to proceed with production of any order. The E-Proof consists of a low resolution copy of the file received. PDF Screen proofs will predict text accuracy, image proportion and placement, but not color density or image resolution/quality. We rely solely on your approval of the PDF proof as final verification and acceptance of the project. You may request a PRINTED proof on the job material if you wish to review ACTUAL output coloring and image quality of your artwork. Cost is approx $45—175 (varies per item).

Please note: Rush orders with 2 days or less production time forgo any proof process due to limited time constraints.

All of our product templates have been provided to ensure an accurate production outcome. Please ensure you’ve used a template supplied by our company for the specific product being purchased.  If artwork is provided and our template was not used additional costs may apply to adjust your art file to fit appropriately.

Graphic Template Tip: Save your artwork file WITHOUT the following items:

  • template showing (turn off template layer and then save)

  • register marks

  • color bars

Inspire. Design. Capture.

Inspiring designs capture audiences. Period. You only have 3 seconds to make your one-of-a-kind booth space the talk of the show. And for this reason, we offer in-house graphic designing available for all our customers who need graphic design assistance. Our team has over 20 years experience of specifically designing Trade Show displays. Please visit our Graphic Design section for complete details on this in-house service.

How do I upload art? 
Once you complete a purchase you will be asked to send us your files. Simply follow the steps and instructions to upload your art.

What art file formats do you accept? 
We work with Adobe Suite programs (PhotoShop & Illustrator) and accept the following file types for printing: .AI, .PSD, .PDF, .JPG or .TIF.

What resolution does my art need to be at? 
100-125 dpi at full print size.

What color mode do you print in? 
CMYK only.  Please ensure your art file is created in CMYK mode and not RGB.

Where can I find graphic templates? 
You may go to our Templates page to view the templates for all of our products.  Just slide down the tab for your style display.

Can your team help with the graphic designing of my display? 
Absolutely!  We offer in-house graphic designing.  Our team has over 20 years experience of specifically designing Trade Show displays.  To learn more, please visit our Graphic Design page.

Here’s How You Can Begin:

  1. Chat online, call 1-800-723-2050 or e-mail [email protected]

  2. Discussion time with rep go over ideas and brainstorm

  3. Provide your logo file, photos, text, ideas, etc.

  4. Initial design draft is sent for review, make necessary changes

  5. Approve final design to be send to production

We work hard to ensure you are happy with the printed graphics you order from us. When submitting your own graphic files to AffordableDisplays.com, we take no responsibility in the quality of the artwork, only the workmanship. Graphic files are reviewed for accuracy in dimensions. We are not responsible for proofreading, image quality/resolution and/or correcting errors.  

**Custom printed items produced for your use only are non-returnable & non-refundable.

Any press/production time lost or alterations/corrections made because of the customer's delay or change of mind will be charged at the AffordableDisplays.com current rate.  If an imaging problem is detected or a change is requested after printing begins, you will be charged appropriately for products already produced.  

The standard graphic production is 3-7 business days (depending upon product ordered) from the time the proof is approved plus any necessary shipping transit time. Upgraded shipping and rush production options are available for a fee, you may learn more about shipping and rush orders here.