Resources

Resources and Tips From Printing Experts

There are more variations in software packages than we could list on our site. Below are some of the most common problems we encounter. We strongly recommend you check with us before possibly making a costly mistake. Call InkSpot or email us at orders@inkspotprinting.com.
The software listed below are the major file formats we accept (PC format).

  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe InDesign
  • Corel Draw
  • MS Publisher
  • EPS, TIFF, JPEG, BMP
  • Preferred format: high-resolution PDF file, composite and color-separated

If you are using a format other than those listed, please contact us; we have many other formats to choose from.

Font Problems

The number one problem with digital file transfer in the printing industry is font conflicts. Almost always, these conflicts can be avoided by sending the printer fonts, or by converting the text to outlines (Illustrator) or curves (Corel Draw).

Font Problems

The number one problem with digital file transfer in the printing industry is font conflicts. Almost always, these conflicts can be avoided by sending the printer fonts, or by converting the text to outlines (Illustrator) or curves (Corel Draw).

Scanning

Line Art

It is better to scan and reduce a larger image than to scan and enlarge a smaller image. We recommend scanning line art at 1200 dpi. Text does not scan and reproduce well. Line art with screens (shaded areas) should always be redrawn for the best quality instead of being scanned. Scanning plugs the screens and makes blotchy areas in your artwork.

Black and White Photographs

When scanning black-and-white photos or converting color photos to black and white, they should be scanned with a resolution of 300 dpi if the image is to be used in a 1:1 ratio or smaller. Files should always be saved in high-resolution JPG or TIFF format.

Do not attempt to color in or correct your photos or use any other filter such as sharpen, auto correct, or duotone without a properly calibrated monitor. Every monitor is different. At InkSpot, we calibrate our monitors frequently to match output devices and printed samples to over 98% accuracy.

Color Photographs

When scanning color photos for full-color printing, scans should be made at 300 dpi to 400 dpi if the photo is to be used in a 1:1 ratio or smaller. Photos should be saved as high-resolution JPG or TIFF images in CMYK mode. Photos from the internet are not a good choice for printing. They are usually only 72 dpi images and the quality is too poor for printing. They possibly could work in a document in which you are going to reduce the image at least 75%.
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