Most input media provided to Thompson Print Solutions is in the form of an electronic file of your print communication piece. This is frequently created using desktop publishing programs such as Microsoft Publisher, Quark Express, Adobe, PageMaker or Publisher. One of the biggest issues in processing of electronic files by Thompson Print Solutions is that they are all too often not print ready. To help avoid electronic files that can't be processed, please follow the checklist below:

1. Include all the fonts that are used in the piece. Thompson will not be able to see or use your selected fonts if they are not included in the file.

2. Include the final page count, including the cover. Making sure the page count is included will remove any room for error on numbers of pages.

3. Include all unique colors (PMS Colors), and the spot color names and number. Include those numbers in an email or in the file.

4. Include Linked images on your printed piece. Linked images are the images for a piece that must be linked to the area of the project and saved with that project. We are not able to see images that are not linked.

5. Include the names of the Application Programs used (including version number). For instance, if you used Quark Express 5.0, please include that information in the file sent to our print shop or designer.

6. Include the Layout File names. Your file can be easily confused when many files are sent, but only one file is the correct one.

7. Page Size should be the same as the final printed size unless allowing for bleeds. Bleeds are used if you need your printed piece to have color to the edge of the page. Bleeds should be exactly 1/8" over the final finished size.

8. Make sure your files are saved in CMYK format. It will frequently be created in RGB so that you can view it on your computer monitor. CMYK is the full color process system that we use to create the high quality, vibrant colors by using offset printing presses.

9. Make sure your project is saved in 300 dpi. Many times pictures that you took off the Internet or pictures that you have scanned will not be 300 dpi. The 300 dpi is the minimum image resolution that is recommended to deliver clear and vibrant pictures. Pictures that are less than 300 dpi will be fuzzy and unclear.

10. Layout files should be in Printers Spreads, not reader's spreads.

11. Make sure the project is set up with proper trapping. Trapping consists of placing the pictures together correctly. If you do not it can cause inconsistent or fuzzy pictures.

COMMERCIAL PRINTING ORDERING TIPS

Thompson Print Solutions is an experienced and knowledgeable commercial printer with a reputation for quality, reliability, and one that is easy to do business with. Allow us the opportunity to provide the best quote based on the following information you provide:

1. Quantity

2. Flat and finished sheet size

3. Paper type and weight

4. Number of ink colors

5. Finishing specifications

6. Proofing preference