Artwork Guidelines

Simplify Your Order Process: Guidelines for Perfect Prints

At CustomCanopy.ca, our artwork guidelines are tailored for seamless compatibility with our large-format digital printing technology, ensuring your designs look stunning and professional. Following these guidelines helps prevent delays and guarantees top-quality results.

Preferred File Formats

Adobe Illustrator (All Versions): This vector-based program ensures sharp scaling and high-quality output. Please convert text to outlines and include all linked images.
Adobe Photoshop (All Versions): Ideal for detailed photo editing. Be sure to include layers, paths, channels, linked images, and fonts when submitting.

File Formats Requiring Additional Preparation

These formats are accepted but may need extra processing:

InDesign: Export a press-quality PDF, convert text to outlines, include linked images and fonts, and verify file integrity.
Quark Express: Save your design as an EPS file, which we’ll prepare in Illustrator by outlining text and adding linked images.
CorelDraw: Convert text to outlines, include linked files, and export as an EPS.

Unaccepted File Formats

We cannot process files from:

Microsoft Word
Microsoft Publisher
PowerPoint

Artwork Templates

To make designing easier, we provide artwork templates for each product. These templates are pre-scaled to the exact dimensions required. Use Adobe Illustrator to layer your design onto the template for perfect alignment.

Proofing

Every order undergoes digital e-proofing before production. Proofs confirm layout accuracy and grammar but cannot fully represent resolution or color quality.

Resolution Requirements

Our large-format prints require manageable file sizes for optimal results:

File Size: Keep files under 500 MB.
Vector Elements: Use vector programs like Adobe Illustrator for most design elements.
Image Resolution: Photos should be no more than 125 dpi at final print size. View your design at 100% magnification for accuracy.
Final Print Resolution: Our printers operate at 720 dpi, but pixelated images will remain low-quality in the final product.

Color Accuracy

Color Mode: Submit designs in CMYK to ensure accurate color reproduction. RGB files can be converted, but slight variations may occur.
Hard Proofs: For critical color accuracy, order printed proofs to review before final production.
Color Matching:

Vector files are best for color matching.
Provide PMS (Pantone Matching System) solid-coated references for precise color needs. A fee may apply for PMS matching, though exact matches cannot be guaranteed.
Reprints may vary slightly due to natural printer, ink, and material differences.

Avoid Common File Issues

Outline Fonts: Convert all fonts to outlines to prevent font errors.
Include Linked Files: Ensure all linked images are provided with your submission.
Use Art Templates: These ensure proper sizing and positioning of elements.
Avoid Low-Resolution Images: High-resolution images prevent blurry or pixelated prints.

Optimizing Large Files

For file sizes exceeding 200 MB:

Incorporate more vector elements to simplify the design.
Contact us for assistance with alternative delivery methods.

Transparency Notes

Transparencies may look different in print than on screen. When using transparency, ask for actual proof to confirm the outcomes.

You can expect perfect outcomes that realize your vision by following these instructions. Please get in touch with the team if you need help or have any questions.