Click the links below for information about setting up artfiles.
- File Format
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All art files sent to Markham Bailey must be .EPS or Encapsulated PostScript files. In order to obtain high-quality, fully-compatible art files, Markham Bailey recommends Adobe Illustrator, as well as some later versions of Adobe Photoshop allow for the creation of .EPS files.
In order to maintain the high quality imaging that Markham Bailey is known for, all images sent to us must have 300 dpi resolution.
Markham Bailey’s four-color process printing requires all art files to be saved as CMYK. Art files that are saved in RGB format will not maintain the integrity of original design, resulting in an inferior and undesirable end product.
When creating an art file, the art board should be adjusted to fit as closely around the label as possible. Having an art file that is either too large or too small will result in improper sizing for the end product. To ensure that the final product is the proper size, it is necessary to create the art file at actual size with an art board that tightly fits the image.
- Bleeds
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An adequate bleed is an important aspect of any art file that is taken to press. A proper bleed ensures that the background color or pattern of a label fully extends beyond the edge of the label. This will prevent unprinted edges from showing up on the final product. Markham Bailey requires a standard 1/8” (.125”) bleed on all sides.
- Edge Space
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Edge Space is an important aspect of any label design. Adequate Edge Space ensures that important features of a label aren’t inadvertently cut off during the digital finishing process. To insure the highest quality cut Markham Bailey requires 1/8” (.125”) Edge Space on all sides.
- Outlining Fonts
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When being transferred from computer to computer it is possible for fonts to get lost in translation. If a Markham Bailey computer lacks a font used in an art file, that font will be inadvertently changed to a different one. “Outlining” text converts it into a vector shape. This ensures that the font used in an art file is the same as the font on the end product.
Converting text into a vector shape is very easy. However, once you “outline” the text it will no longer be possible to edit it. If there are any typos after “outlining” it will be necessary to recreate the text boxes and then “outline” again.
- Color Matching
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An image viewed on one monitor often looks different from the same image viewed on a different monitor. Similarly an image printed with one printer will look completely different than with a different one. With this in mind, it can be very difficult to maintain color integrity throughout the print process.
In addition to monitors and printers having a wide degree of variance in how an image is displayed or printed. Different materials and processes will also have an effect on the color. Images printed on film will look different than images printed on recycled paper and either of these materials may look substantially different with a laminate applied.
Pantone colors are precise colors developed for the Pantone Matching System. This standardized listing of colors is useful for articulating the desired color and maintaining this color throughout the printing process.
In order to ensure an exact translation of desired PMS color to CMYK, Markham Bailey may require a PMS number or color swatch and a substrate-specific proofing process. Please inquire via email or phone here(link) if you need an exact color match.
- Art File Setup Service
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If for any reason a customer has trouble setting up their art file. Markham Bailey offers an Art File Setup Service. By maintaining strong business relationships with graphic designers, Markham Bailey is able to prepare an art file to the exact specifications needed. There is a $50 fee for all files that require this service.