Artwork Specifications

Already designed your own sign and want to supply us with the artwork file? No problem!

But first - when creating custom signage, it is important to understand the process of supplying artwork files. By providing files which meet the specifications of our production equipment, you can ensure that your signage is finished quickly and looks exactly as you wanted it.

Here are some key points to keep in mind when supplying artwork files;

 

COLOUR MODE

RGB colour is the preferred colour mode for artwork using our digital print systems;
Files supplied in CMYK colour format are converted to RGB mode by our digital print software and this can result in unexpected colours on the final print. For best results we recommend you check on screen how your design looks in RGB mode, then adjust your artwork accordingly in RGB format before saving out your final PDF or EPS file for supply to us.

We can colour match to your brand specific colours;
If you require specific colours, please supply the PMS numbers and we'll match as closely as possible. Or get in touch with us to discuss the colour recipes of your brand identity.

Vinyl Applications;
We can help you choose the right colour from our range of vinyl swatches.

Creating a rich black; 
Please set up solid black using the following recipes.
CMYK: 50,50,50,100.
RGB: 0,0,0.

 

IMAGE RESOLUTION

When preparing your artwork, it's important to use high-resolution images at the right scale for final output. 

All artwork must be supplied at the correct proportion, at 100% of final size, using  bitmap/raster images at a minimum of 150dpi.

Image resolution is typically measured in dots per inch (dpi). The higher the dpi, the more detail and sharpness your printed image will have. For most printing purposes, a resolution of 300 dpi is recommended to ensure crisp and clear results. Low-resolution images, such as those taken from the internet or captured with a low-quality camera, may appear pixelated or blurry when printed at a larger size.

If you're unsure about the resolution of your images, here are a few tips to help you:

1. Check the image properties:
Right-click on the image file and select "Properties" (Windows) or "Get Info" (Mac). Look for the image dimensions and resolution. If the resolution is below 300 dpi, consider using a higher-resolution image.

2. Consult a professional:
If you're still unsure about the resolution of your images or need assistance with image editing, don't hesitate to reach out to the team at Mainland Signs. We have experts who can guide you through the process and ensure your artwork meets the necessary requirements.

Remember, using high-resolution images will result in a better print quality and greater satisfaction with your self designed project.

 

FONTS

Please convert all fonts to outlines/paths.

 

BLEED

Please add 5mm bleed to all edges of your artwork.

 

CROP MARKS

No crop marks, no printer marks.
If you need to include a border to mark the edges of your file, please use a 10% black hairline.

 

FILE TYPES

Not all software can handle graphics information. We use industry standard design software to create sign artwork.

We prefer to be supplied with the following file types;

• PDF
• EPS

Due to the risk of some supplied files corrupting and producing poor results when imported into our systems, we do not accept files created in the following software;

• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Publisher

 

PROOFING

If you have supplied the artwork, and would like to check how the file looks before proceeding to final production, proofs are available at $18.50 +GST per proof.

 

INCORRECTLY SUPPLIED ARTWORK

Any minor changes to files will be done at no charge. Corrections to artwork sizing, color modes, image resolution, fonts or crop mark specifications as detailed above may incur an artwork correction fee of $95.00 +GST per hour.

 

TRY USING CANVA TO CREATE YOUR DESIGN