The layout programs we accept are QuarkXPress, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop. We prefer receiving artwork through our E-mail Artwork Files button on our website. However, you can submit files on a CD-ROM, ZIP. If mailing a disk, label it with your company name and phone number. Disks will not be returned to you unless specifically specified.

See how to order for step-by-step instructions and see below for additional information & templates.

Proofs

We have one option for proofing.

A free color PDF which is not color-accurate. This can be emailed to you.

We suggest you provide us a printed proof with your order for reference if possible. The turnaround time for a proof is a day or two and thereby delays your order being printed as quickly as possible.

Design BILLING

All graphic design and typesetting work is performed on the Macintosh platform and is bilabial at $75 hr. If you provide a Microsoft Word file with only text laid out as you want it, we can convert it to a printable format for only $25. Average turnaround can vary by several days depending on the complexity of your design.

Please plan date sensitive materials well in advance. Design will add more time to the processing of your order. Printed turn around times do not begin until you have approved a final design proof.

Scanning and Color Correction

Color photos, slides, or transparencies can be scanned and placed into your design. Images can be color-corrected within reasonable specifications and visual effects added by request as well. Scans are made using a high-resolution flat-bed scanner. Original art will only be returned with your order.

• Scanning Fee: $30 per scan.

• Maximum size of originals not to exceed 8.5 x 14

• Oversized originals, please contact Customer Service.

Design Proofs

Upon completion of any design work, we supply a proof for your approval. We will contact you to schedule an appointment to view the proof. If you choose to have the proof sent to you, arrangements for delivery can be made at this time. Your order will not be scheduled until a final proof has been signed. A color PDF can be emailed, or a black and white laser proof of your card can be faxed to you to confirm any changes and/or corrections. Your order will not be put into production until you are completely satisfied with the finished design and have signed and returned our Design Approval Form.

Consultations

If you require professional assistance with your design, please call and make an appointment to discuss and explore your ideas before you place your order. To maximize the value of this consultation, we suggest you bring along any and all artwork, photos, copy, and a clearly written layout.

Quark Files

• Files created in Quark must be submitted as native files.

• Do not save your file as a Quark EPS

• All color must be created from Pantone or CMYK, not RGB. All unused colors should be deleted form palate.

• Make sure document has an 1/8" bleed all around and 1/8" type safety.

• Quark Templates: E-mail request

Photoshop Files

• We prefer TIFF files with no compression created in Photoshop.

• Keep images at 100% and at 300 dpi.

• RGB is video color and represents the full color spectrum. CMYK is printed color and is not capable of vibrant or neon colors. Convert your RGB files to CMYK before sending them to us. VWPress is not responsible for color shifts between RGB and CMYK.

• Make sure document has an 1/8" bleed all around.

• Avoid complicated clipping paths, as this can lead to output problems.

• Photoshop Templates: E-mail request

Illustrator & Freehand Files

• Convert all fonts to "outline" or "artwork" and save as a EPS file-do not leave fonts imbedded in these files.

• RGB is video color and represents the full color spectrum. CMYK is printed color and is not capable of vibrant or neon colors. Convert your RGB files to CMYK before sending them to us. VWPress is not responsible for color shifts between RGB and CMYK.

• Always include the original files for all placed art, matching the specifications shown here for that file type.

• Be sure to include bleed/safety in your Illustrator/Freehand files (if applicable).

• Illustrator Templates: E-mail request

Fonts

• All SCREEN and PRINTER fonts used in your document must be included on your disk with your order.

• If you bold or italicize fonts in Quark, you should print them out to see if the effect will work. All fonts will appear bold or italic on the screen, but a print-out will show whether they will eventually print that way or not. If the effect doesn't work, you should use the style-specific version of the font you want (example: Helvetica Bold Oblique).

• To create font shadows duplicate dark text (in front) and a place a lighter shade of the same text behind it.

• If the fonts you're using do not offer the styles you desire, choose another font.

• Do not put all fonts in one suitcase.