The Top Ten Common Mistakes
That May Cause Additional Expense and Delays

1. Fonts are missing from the files. If you want your text to flow exactly as you have created it, submit all of your fonts with your document.
   
   
2. RGB images are not converted to CMYK. While printers are able to produce these images, they do not always have the same color values as you see on your monitor. RGB is the color space for viewing images on screen - not on paper.
   
   
3. Missing artwork. We need all of your high resolution artwork when we create a print file. Most graphic applications have the tools available to collect your graphics to be sent to a printer. Use them. Don't rely on your memory to package your files.
   
   
4. Bleeds are missing in PDF print files. When creating a press ready PDF, include the bleeds in your final page size. Without them, you may risk having a printed piece that is actually smaller than you may have expected.
   
   
5. More colors are used in the file than were specified. We can't print a 2 color letterhead when the final document contains more than 2 colors. The most common example is when a logo has been created in Photoshop or Illustrator and is then placed in the final document, it contains CMYK color information along with the spot color.
   
   
6. Insufficient image resolution. To avoid bitmapped or blurry images in your final piece, don't use low resolution web images (such as GIF files). Don't expect a 72dpi camera file to appear sharp and clear when enlarged in print.
   
   
7. Embedded color profiles. Many profiles available today such as ICC and US SWOP contain specific color instructions that may cause color shifting on press. Don't embed color profiles unless you have checked with prepress to determine which profile your printers RIP may use.
   
   
8. Expecting spot color inks on press to match color laser proofs. While color lasers do a fantastic job of creating beautiful color comps, they do not truly simulate the offset printing process when using spot color. Use ink sample swatches from a current swatch book as your guide.
   
   
9. Trusting your monitor. Monitors are transmitting color. Printing is reflecting color. Monitor calibration helps, but a calibrated hard copy proof is the only true measure of what to expect in the end.
   
   
10. Incomplete finishing instructions. The finishing (or bindery) process is equally as important as the other steps in producing an accurate final product. If you need hole punching, side stitching or special delivery instructions, tell us in the beginning of the process to avoid surprises in the end.