For artwork that will be reproduced in plotter cut vinyl, engraved, routed or V-carved, the required format is a vector-based file. These can be provided in the following formats: .eps / .ai / .pdf. Programs that can produce vector-based files are Adobe Illustrator, Macromedia Freehand, and Corel Draw. Note – convert all text to outlines prior to saving file.
For artwork that will be digitally printed and the artwork is photo-based, the ideal format is a CMYK .tif file at the desired output size (if possible) at a minimum of 72 dpi / maximum of 144 dpi. We also can accept .jpeg /.pdf / .psd.
For artwork that will be digitally printed and the artwork is a combination of photos, graphics and text, the ideal format is a CMYK .pdf file at the desired output size (if possible) at a minimum of 72 dpi / maximum of 144 dpi. We also can accept .jpeg /.pdf / .psd / .ai / .eps. Note – convert all text to outlines prior to saving file.
Keep in mind that if you intend to enlarge a photo, the resolution must be of sufficient size so that the image will not appear blurry once enlarged. If you want to provide the files at a reduced scale such as half-size or quarter size, adjust the resolution upward to a corresponding degree. For instance, if you provide a half scale file for a 4 x 8 banner and choose to send a file that is 2 x 4, the file should be a minimum of 144 dpi so that when the file is increased in size, it meets the minimum 72 dpi file size. A quarter-scale file should be 4x the minimum or 288 dpi. Files downloaded or copied from websites are generally not acceptable because of their limited resolution.
When submitting files, you can email files under 10 mb. Larger files can be sent on CD, DVD, uploaded to our FTP Site or sent via YouSendIt or similar programs. If the project is color critical, please provide target color samples AND request a color proof for review. We recommend submitting a color hard copy of your file or at bare minimum, a reference .pdf file. Depending on how your file was created, we cannot guarantee that your artwork will display properly on our machines. By providing us with a visual reference, we are better able to ensure that your artwork reproduces properly.
For our FTP information, please send an email to mail@timelysigns.com
If you have questions regarding file setup, please contact our office and ask to speak with someone in the design department. We will be happy to assist you.
