DESIGN/LAYOUT AND FILE FORMAT QUESTIONS

How can I prepare my file so you can print what is on my screen?
It won’t be exact, since our process is not calibrated to your computer screen. While there is a raft of variables in our printing process, if you follow these guidelines, we are confident we can get close to your original concept.

Here are some dos and don’ts to help us achieve your vision.

Do…

• – Start with original artworks, drawings or photographs.
• – If scanning use a minimum of 300dpi.
• – Work in sRGB (RGB1EC61966-2.1)
• – Working in RGB will provide the best colour results.
• – Remember images off the internet are 72dpi and you just don’t know what colour space these files have been in and out of. The result will not be what is on your screen and may be an inferior print. It’s better to use another source.
• – Work with the raw file in RGB if you use photographs.
• – Work with your files at 100% size (actual scale) and save in same.
• – Save as a TIFF.
• – For critical colours you may like to select from a colour chart printed on your chosen fabric.

Don’t…

• – Work in CMYK.
• – Work in adobe RGB 1998
• – Save as a PDF or JPEG.
• – Compress your file.
• – Work with less than 300dpi. We have found that 300dpi is fine for most work.
• – Push your memory requirements too high, 600dpi is large enough for very detailed graphics.

I have no idea how to set up a file, can I send original artwork so you can put it into the computer and get it ready for printing?
Yes, we have a very experienced team in our graphic design studio who can help with all your artwork requirements. Full photographic and scanning equipment are available, so we can take your concept through to completed file and then to print it for you.

Can you put my artwork into step and repeat?
Yes we love doing that and it’s one of our specialties.

Is there a file size limit?
One gigabyte is our limit. Leave your computer at home and bring or send us your USB or a disc.

Is there a file length limit?
Please make sure your files are set up for no more than two metres.

What orientation should I set up my file?
Remember that the selvedge of the fabric is on the left and right of your computer screen, not top and bottom.

Can I email my files?
These are only good for reference and we cannot use them to print.

Do you have an FTP site?
Recurring accounts can be set up to our FTP site with password protected access.

What other information or items do I need to provide for you to execute my printing job?
When supplying your file we would like to see a hard copy print out of the design or section of the design to scale. If there are special colours you will need to send a hard copy colour reference such as a swatch of fabric, colour chip or tear sheet from your favourite magazine.

How many colours can I use?
You can use as many colours as you wish. Using our proprietary software Colorbox colour management we can help you choose from our colour chart so you can achieve exactly what you desire.

What happens if I send you a CMYK file?
You will be disappointed with the result, and so will we. We can still print it but the colour will not look much like the image on your screen. You will get dull, flat mid-tones and no depth, similar to printing a raw image from the internet. Certainly not the super popping colour that we love to see!

Is there an overlap on the printing?
Remember this is not screen-printing. But if you want an overlap, we can arrange it. If you want a little bleed, that’s easy too, direct to fabric digital printing can mimic screen printing.

Many customers have us prepare the files as if for screen printing, so we print their sample fabrics which they they make into sample garments. These can then be presented to the buyers and then order larger volumes from their regular screen printer. We can assist by colour-separating any files for your screen printer.

Do I have to print with you?
No, if you simply want your files prepared for another printer, that’s fine with us.