File Types

For ALL FILE TYPES:

  • Remember to send font files used in the design OR where possible convert all type to outlines. This is certainly the most common delay for print jobs, where we are unable to use the artwork as supplied because we do not have the right fonts on our system.
  • Also send separate image files and links used in the design, unless you are certain of proper embedding (e.g. PDF). For example, if your design is in Microsoft Word and you have placed images in the layout, send those image files along with the Word file.
  • Avoid using images from web sites. These are almost always too low resolution to give satisfactory results when printed.
  • Compress files whenever possible using compression/archive software (WinZIP, WinRAR, StuffIt, built-in Windows/MacOS utilities). This not only reduces overall file size, but also better preserves the file(s) when transmitted by email or otherwise.
  • Do not use overprinting in programs that have this feature.
Accepted File Types
Application Version Notes
Acrobat PDF 8 (CS3) or earlier
  • Ensure file includes bleeds where necessary.
CorelDRAW 13 (X3) or earlier
  • Set document as 1-up only, i.e. not as 'labels' (Layout > Page Setup).
Corel PhotoPaint 13 (X3) or earlier
  • Ensure CMYK mode for best results. Watch for 'black' to ensure it is Cyan-0%, Magenta-0%, Yellow-0%, Black-100%.
  • Minimum 300dpi resolution.
  • Flatten all non-text objects together, where possible.
EPS file n/a
  • Ensure CMYK mode for best results.
Excel 2007 or earlier
  • Please proof carefully! Excel files are notorious for pagination (page break) shifts when opened on different computers.
Fireworks PNG MX 2004 or earlier
  • Generally not suitable for print, especially when including text
  • Ensure 300dpi resolution at desired inch size.
Freehand 11 (MXa) or earlier
  • Use CMYK or Pantone colours only (no RGB, others).
GIF image n/a
  • Generally not suitable for print (resolution usually insufficient; restricted colour support).
  • Will be converted to CMYK with unpredictable results.
Illustrator CS3 or earlier
  • Ensure CMYK mode for best results.
  • Delete all stray points (Select > Object > Stray Points, delete).
  • Do not create 'spot' swatches except for desired Pantone inks; all other swatches in use should be process colour.
InDesign CS3 or earlier
  • Perform Package to ensure all fonts and links will be included.
JPG image n/a
  • Will be converted to CMYK with unpredictable results.
  • Consider TIF instead, whenever possible.
PageMaker 6.5 or earlier
  • Will be converted to InDesign; some text layout changes may occur, so please check your proof carefully.
  • Use CMYK colours only. Avoid using predefined RGB colours.
Photoshop CS3 or earlier
  • Ensure CMYK mode for best results.
  • Flatten all objects to conserve file size.
PNG image n/a
  • Generally not suitable for print.
  • Will be converted to CMYK with unpredictable results.
Publisher 2007 or earlier
  • Perform Pack and Go to ensure all fonts will be embedded and all links will be included.
QuarkXPress 7 (Mac only) or earlier
  • Perform Collect for Output to ensure all fonts and links will be included.
TIF image n/a
  • Ensure CMYK mode for best results.
Word 2007 or earlier
  • Always send any graphics (photos, clipart) separately from Word file, in addition to placing them in the layout.

If your software or design file type is not listed here, contact our Graphics Dept. to find out how best to submit your artwork.