What’s the difference between RGB and CMYK?
RGB (Red Green Blue) is a display color mode, used to create every other tone that is visible on your computer monitors and television screens. While each screen is capable of displaying a wide range of colors, there are still inconsistencies between screens. CMYK (Cyan Magenta Yellow Black) is a printing color mode, used for traditional offset and digital printing. The four colors (CMYK) are combined to create the color spectrum used in printing. CMYK printing does not reproduce color the same way that you view color on your RGB monitor.

What is a PMS color?
PMS (Pantone Matching System) or spot colors are pre-defined colors that are mixed from a specific published formula. Since PMS ink colors follow standard formulas, you are almost guaranteed to get an exact color match on your printed piece.

Why does my PMS color look different when it’s printed in CMYK process inks?
PMS inks are mixed following a specific formula, but when a spot color is rendered using CMYK inks the color is created differently to fit the change in printing process. Some PMS colors can be closely matched in CMYK, others cannot.

Why is a bleed necessary?
If you want images or backgrounds to run to the edge of the finished piece, it is important to include a bleed in the file. A bleed is an extension of the color or image that extends over the final trim size of the piece. This extension allows for any slight shift that may occur while printing or cutting, assuring that you won’t have a white border around the edge of the finished piece. The preferred minimum bleed is an 1/8 inch. (.125”). For more information download our bleed & margin information sheet here.

Can I use a photo from my website for printing?
Web graphics are typically created at a low resolution or a low dpi to allow web pages to load faster. These low resolution images will not print clearly and may result in fuzzy edges.

Why do I have to send font files for standard fonts like Times or Arial?
Every computer system comes with different fonts and different variations of fonts. Even with standard fonts like Arial and Times, there are many different versions that may have slight differences causing the text to re-flow or appear differently than it did on your computer screen.

Why doesn’t the proof look like it did on my computer?
In order to view accurate printing color on your screen, your monitor must be professionally calibrated. Screens render colors differently than the printing process, so it is important to view a printed color proof from our proofing equipment.

What is the largest piece you can print?
On our digital press the largest image we can print is 12” x 18”. The largest image we can print offset is 20.5” x 29.125”.

What are coated and uncoated papers?
Coated paper has a smooth finish and can be purchased in a variety of finishes, including gloss, satin, dull and matte. Printing on coated paper makes text and graphics appear sharper because the ink has a less porous surface to settle on and is often preferred for print pieces with fine detail or a lot of photographs and graphics.

Uncoated paper is a more porous type of paper that comes in various textures such as smooth, vellum, linen and laid. Due to the porous nature of uncoated paper it absorbs more ink. Uncoated stocks are easier to write on and are often preferred for pieces with large volumes of small text due to the ease of readability.

What is varnish and when should I use it?
Varnish is essentially ink without pigment. It can be applied in a gloss, dull or satin finish. Varnish can be used for effect, changing the look of the ink, or for mild protection from smudging, scuffing and scratching. Overall varnish may be used to provide protection on pieces with heavy ink coverage or pieces that will be well handled. Spot varnish can be used to add depth to a piece.

You cannot ink-jet print, glue or foil stamp over varnish, so you need to leave an uncoated area if you want to do any of these.

What is die cutting?
Die cutting is a method of cutting paper in a shape or design by using a block in which there are steel rules positioned in the shape of the desired pattern. It’s often used for packaging, pocket folders and labels.

What is FSC?
FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council and supports responsible forestry by maintaining a certified Chain-of-Custody of practices from the forester to the paper mill, printer and finally YOU, the print buyer. By becoming certified, we're able to print the appropriate FSC approved logo on any job that uses certified paper showing your commitment to responsible forest management. To learn more: fsc.org or view our information sheet here.