File Preparation for Output

In order to ensure your next project is as perfect in print as it is in concept, Kistler Printing Company, Inc. has prepared this easy to follow directions for helping you prepare your files. Most of the material presented herein should be familiar while some material may be new to you. Every printer is different and we want to make sure that when working with us, your experience is as smooth as possible.

File Types & Formats

We accept both Mac and PC file formats.
• pdfs • tiffs • jpegs • psds (flat or layered)
• eps (If you are going to send an eps, please convert all fonts to curves or outlines)

We accept native files from the following Mac and PC programs.
• Adobe InDesign • Quark • Adobe Pagemaker • Adobe Illustrator / Corel Draw
• Adobe Photoshop • Adobe Acrobat • Microsoft Publisher • Microsoft Word

It is critical that all files sent to us contain the following job parts or elements:
• The File • All Fonts Used • All Linked Artwork • A soft proof (hardcopy or PDF)

Most applications such as Quark, InDesign and Microsoft Publisher all have utilities in which all you need to do is a “Collect for Output” or “Pack and Go” where all elements of the job are collected and put in one convenient location in order for you to burn, copy, or e-mail to us.

File Specifics
Now that you know the types of files we handle, let’s go over the specifics of how each of your files should be saved.

RESOLUTION: The resolution of all artwork should be 300 dpi. We realize that sometimes this is not possible, but the better the resolution - the better the image will reproduce. *Tip: images pulled from the internet are almost always 72 dpi resolution and reproduce rather poorly.

COLOR: Images should be CMYK only. If RGB images are sent, there will be a dramatic color shift after we run our preflight on your files.

BLEED: Please leave 1/8 inch around your entire document and extend color or image out past the cut marks. For example, if you have an 8.5x11 document and the color or image takes up the entire document, add the bleed and when making your PDF, make the document size 9.5 x 12, turn cut marks on, turn bleed on (.125) and create your PDF.

If you do not have a login id, please call 570-421-2050 to receive one once your order has been placed.