Preparing Your Design Files for Optimal Output

Use these guidelines to ensure you set up the best possible files for printing. ​

Artwork Size

• Create art at full scale for the sign you are going to order.
• If you’re designing a sign larger than your program will let you (usually around 15 ft. long), then please create artwork half of its size.

Color

• Be sure to use a CMYK color space. 
  • To do this in Adobe Illustrator: go to File > Document Color Mode > CMYK Color.
• If you need to match a color, then please ask customer service about a Color Match Proof.

Best File Types

• .pdf
• .eps
• .jpeg

Text

• For all text in the design, make sure it is converted to outlines.
  • To make sure the text is a font, try highlighting it.
  • Navigate to Type, scroll down to Create Outlines. This ensures your text has been converted to shapes.

Check Overprint Settings

• Make sure no elements are selected for Overprint. 
  • To do this in Adobe Illustrator go to: Window > Attributes. Dock the window wherever you’d like.