Any project that will go to a printer has its own special requirements. From the way you actually create the design to getting it there on time to getting the file ready for print, error-free.
1. IMAGE PREP
- Is the resolution right for your printer?
- Did you use vector images wherever possible?
- Have you adjusted the color and brightness to look good for print?
- Are images 90 to 150 percent of the actual print size at the proper resolution?
- Are black and white images saved as grayscale?
- Are images saved in CMYK mode?
- Do you have the proper right to use the images?
2. TEXT PREP
- Did you spell-check everything?
- Did you double-check the spelling of names, logos, and brand marks?
- Did you ensure that all special characters are correctly rendered?
- Did you check all spacing to remove double spaces or line breaks?
- Are all fonts linked to the design files?
- Is black text saved as one-color black, if necessary?
- Do you have the proper rights to use all typefaces in the project?
3. FILE PREP
- Have you packaged all files for the printer – text, fonts, images?
- Did you remove extraneous text, fonts, and colors from the file?
- Are all images and other design elements linking properly?
- Is your file type what was requested by the printer?
- Did you create a package file that includes all of your parts?
- How should the file be delivered?
- When should you expect proof?
