How to Supply Your Own Artwork

Avoid delays by using this handy checklist...

(If you don't understand the terms used here, you can refer to our Glossary, but you probably should not supply your own artwork. Ask our Customer Care team about letting our experienced design team take the strain instead!)

If you plan to supply your own artwork, please download the full (pdf) version of our Artwork Guide.
(Right-click and select "Save Target As" to save a copy to your hard drive.)

Are all colours correctly defined? (Match Pantone names in your illustration and layout programmes so you don't end up with two spot colour names for the same spot colour in your layout programme).
If your job bleeds, does the design extend at least 3mm beyond the edge of the page?
If your design does not bleed, have you allowed a gap of at least 7mm at the gripper edge? (Ask us which is the gripper edge for your job if you are unsure).
Are your photos of the correct resolution and mode? (CMYK, greyscale or duotone?)
Are all graphics linked, not embedded?
Are all strokes or rules 0.3 points or above? (I.e. Have you avoided using hairlines?)
Are folds accurately measured and layouts set up accordingly?
Have you run a spell-check and proof-read for mistakes?

You need to provide the following...

A folder which includes all files, including:
- Your document for printing (layout file);
- All fonts used in your layout file. Remember to include printer and screen fonts, as well as all bold, italic, etc. versions;
- All images used in your layout;
- OR a PostScript or PDF file with embedded fonts.
A final print - called a proof - (preferably from a laser printer) of your file(s) at 100% size, if possible. Write down the % size if not. Your proof should show everything as you'd like it to print. If your job folds or is double-sided, please create a full mock-up.
(Only possible if you have a PostScript printer.) Laser print-outs showing your file separated into the correct process or spot colours.

Download the full (pdf) version of
Admiral's Artwork Guide.
(Right-click and select "Save Target As" to save a copy to your hard drive.)

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