Guidelines for Providing Disc Artwork

We are often asked how we would like artwork supplied to us to ensure the best quality output for a project. Whilst we can work with many different types of files to create print-ready artwork, some file types are less useful and can actually lead to a lower quality print finish.

We understand that our customers do not always have access to the latest design software and need to supply images to us as flat .jpg (or similar) files - as long as the images are of a high enough resolution we can use them.

Please bear in mind that your PC screen and many cameras will only give you a resolution of 72dpi (dots per inch) whereas we print at 300dpi. This means that a 72dpi image can only be reproduced at around a quarter of its original size.

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When you send us your files please add the original file to your email or disc. Do not embed the image in any other document such as a Microsoft Word file. This can lead to a loss of quality as some of the image data is not retained by the software.

Most jobs will be printed using CMYK Process colours. If you cannot convert your file from screen display (RGB) to print (CMYK) don’t worry, we can do that for you. However in some circumstances this can lead to minor colour changes to your supplied artwork.

Please remember to add bleed to your artwork if it reaches to the edges of the disc surface. This means that you need to extend your supplied artwork by 3mm over each edge. This is to ensure that no white lines are seen around the hub or outer edge of your disc when it is printed. We would also be grateful if you removed any hub or edge lines that you have added to size up your artwork before you send it to us.

Here are some general guidelines to follow when creating and supplying your artwork:

• Please provide your artwork images at a minimum of 300dpi resolution.
• Please ensure all images are linked and fonts embedded. Alternatively, please convert any fonts to outlines before sending.
• If possible, please supply layered working files or vector graphics rather than flattened images.
• The majority of print jobs will be printed CMYK; therefore it is important that your file is set up in CMYK unless you have requested a pantone match print. Any linked or embedded picture images (.jpgs etc) should be supplied as CMYK files rather than RGB.
• Please allow an extra 3mm of bleed on all edges of your artwork.
• Where possible please remove any outlines, guides or circles to represent the disc hub. Simply supplying your final disc artwork as a 120mm x 120mm square is fine.

And don’t forget – If you have any questions just pick up the phone and ask us. We are always happy to help you with any queries or problems that you may have.

Author: Doug Newman, Graphics Specialist

*Offer limited to two personalised disc print sample per customer. Available until the 23rd of December 2011.