ARTWORK GUIDELINES

SignageBuzz's artwork guidelines are designed to align with our large-format digital printing process, which differs from traditional offset printing. Following these guidelines will help avoid delays and ensure your artwork looks its best.

Preferred File Formats

Adobe Illustrator (all versions): This vector-based software offers precise scaling and high-quality results. Be sure to convert all text to outlines and include all linked images.

Adobe Photoshop (all versions): Ideal for detailed photo work. Keep layers, paths, and channels intact, and include all fonts and linked images.

Formats Requiring Extra Steps

We accept the following file types, but they need a bit of extra preparation:

InDesign: Export a press-quality PDF, convert text to outlines, include all linked images and fonts, and check for errors.

QuarkXPress: Save your file as an EPS. We’ll open it in Illustrator, convert text to outlines, and include linked images.

CorelDraw: Convert text to outlines, include linked images and fonts, and export as an EPS file.

Additional Notes

We don’t print directly from PDFs due to potential font or image issues.

If you’re not sure which file format to use, please reach out to us.

Unsupported File Formats

• Microsoft Word

• Microsoft Publisher

• PowerPoint

Artwork Templates

Each product page includes downloadable artwork templates, pre-scaled to the correct size. For best results, open these templates in Adobe Illustrator and layer your artwork within the provided layout.

Proofs

Every order includes a digital e-proof. Proofs confirm layout and spelling, but they don’t guarantee final resolution or colour accuracy.

Resolution

Since our prints are large format, keeping file sizes manageable is important. Try to keep files under 500 MB.

• Use vector programs like Illustrator for most design elements.

• For photos, set the resolution to 125 dpi at final print size.

• Always check your file at 100% zoom to confirm quality.

Our printers operate at a minimum of 720 dpi, but low-quality images will still appear pixelated. Reprints due to pixelation won’t be authorized.

Colour Accuracy

Our printing process uses CMYK. Set up your files in CMYK from the start. RGB files can be converted, but colour shifts may occur. What you see on your monitor may differ from the final print. For colour-critical projects, we recommend ordering a hard proof.

Colour Matching Considerations

• File Type: We can only match colours from vector-based files.

• PMS Colours: Provide PMS Solid Coated references for the closest match (a fee may apply). Exact matches cannot be guaranteed.

• Reprints: Due to natural variations in digital printing, exact colour consistency isn’t guaranteed between print runs.

• Flattened Files: Flattening ensures effects print correctly but may slightly affect colour. For best accuracy, order a printed proof.

Optimizing Your Artwork

• Go Vector: Use Illustrator or EPS files whenever possible for the best results.

• Integrate Images Properly: Place Photoshop images into your Illustrator files and include the originals when submitting.

• Specify Critical Colours: Use PMS Solid Coated swatches for spot colours.

• Check Transparencies: Effects like transparency can appear differently in print. Order a proof if these are critical.

• Use Templates: Our templates help avoid sizing errors and unwanted white borders.

• Large Files: If your file exceeds 200 MB, simplify your design with vector graphics or contact us for alternative upload options.