Best Practices for Sending Files to your Printer

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Here are some expert tips to help you package your files effectively for printing:

1. Understand Graphic Solutions Group’s Requirements
   Begin by thoroughly understanding the specific file requirements set forth by Graphic Solutions Group. These guidelines encompass crucial aspects such as dimensions, color modes, resolution, and bleed settings. This information is readily available on here (https://www.gsghome.com/prepress-guidelines/)  or can be obtained through direct communication with our team.
   
2. Use the Correct File Format
   When preparing your files, opt for PDF format, which is generally preferred by printing companies for its ability to preserve design integrity. Adobe’s suite of software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, offers robust tools for creating high-quality PDFs that align with professional printing standards. We prefer you send native files when there is a possibility of alterations.
   
3. Set Up Your Document Correctly
   Ensure your document is set up correctly from the outset. Pay close attention to dimensions, resolution, and color mode, opting for CMYK for full-color printing to ensure accurate color reproduction. Incorporate bleed into your design where necessary to prevent any unwanted white borders after trimming.
   
4. Check Image Resolution
   High-resolution images are essential for achieving crisp and clear prints. Verify that all images in your design have a resolution of at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) at the final print size to maintain optimal quality.
   
5. Outline Fonts
   To mitigate any font-related issues during the printing process, consider outlining your fonts using Adobe Illustrator or InDesign. This converts text into vector shapes, ensuring that your chosen fonts are faithfully reproduced in the final print. Doing this though does limit what changes are possible at the printer.
   
6. Proof read Your Design
   Prior to finalizing your files, conduct a comprehensive proofreading of your design. Look out for typos, grammatical errors, or design inconsistencies that could detract from the overall quality of the printed material.
   
7. Package Your Files Properly
   Organize all necessary files, including fonts and linked images, into a single folder. Adobe’s packaging feature in Illustrator and InDesign simplifies this process by automatically gathering all linked files. Ensure the folder structure is intuitive for easy navigation.
   
8. Provide Clear Instructions
   Accompany your files with clear and detailed instructions outlining any specific requirements or preferences for the printing job. This includes specifying paper type, finish, and any special treatments desired to ensure your vision is accurately realized.
   
9. Communicate with Graphic Solutions Group
   Maintain open lines of communication with Graphic Solutions Group’s team throughout the printing process. Don’t hesitate to seek clarification on any aspects of file preparation or printing specifications to ensure a smooth and successful collaboration.
   
10. Review Proofs Carefully
    Before proceeding with printing, carefully review the proofs provided by Graphic Solutions Group. Take the time to scrutinize every detail, checking for errors or discrepancies to ensure that the final print meets your expectations.

The most common issues that occur during preflight

Preflight Problems	Percentage
Fonts not embedded	40%
Low-Res Images	40%
RGB Used	37%
No Bleed	27%
Transparency	19%
Overprint	16%
Corrupt Fonts	13%
Incorrect Spot Colors	10%
Ink Coverage	9%
Incorrectly flattened	9%
Trim Size Incorrect	7%
Incorrectly Generated PDF	4%
Layers	4%

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By adhering to these best practices, you can streamline the process of preparing and sending files to Graphic Solutions Group, ensuring that your print materials are produced smoothly and with precision. Each step, from file preparation to final review, plays a crucial role in delivering outstanding printed materials that leave a lasting impression on your audience.

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