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Four things cover most of what people need.
- Getting your file print-ready: bleeds, color mode, resolution, fonts. The setup that decides whether a job runs clean.
- Free printing templates: correct trim, bleed and safety margins already set up, by product.
- Ordering and account FAQs: how to order, turnaround, proofing, payment, shipping and delivery.
- Ordering & Account FAQ: how to place an order, what we need to quote it, how long it takes, how to pay, and how it reaches you. All in one place.
- Glossary of printing terms: plain definitions for the terms that show up on a quote.
Preparing your file
| Guide | What it covers |
|---|---|
| File Preparation | What to send, how to set it up, and what we check |
| Bleeds, Cut Line and Safety Margin | How much bleed to add and how far to keep text from the trim |
| Importance of CMYK Color Mode | Why print files use CMYK and what changes when a file converts |
| Fonts and Text Point Sizes | How small text can go before it stops being readable |
| Fonts and Transparency | Why transparency and live fonts cause reprints |
| Vector and Bitmap Graphics | Which format your logo should be in and why it matters |
Guides by software
Setting up a print file works differently depending on what you designed in. Find yours.
| Guide | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Preparing Artwork With Illustrator | Outlining type, CMYK, bleed, press-ready PDF export |
| Preparing Artwork With InDesign | Document setup, packaging, and export settings |
| Preparing Artwork With Photoshop | Resolution, color mode, and why raster needs care |
| Preparing Artwork with Canva | Bleed, CMYK, resolution, and the PDF settings that work |
| Preparing Artwork With Publisher | Setting CMYK and bleed in a program not built for print |
| Preparing Artwork With QuarkXPress | Collecting for output and exporting a press-ready PDF |
Guides by product
Some products have setup requirements of their own.
| Guide | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Foil Artwork Setup Guide | The two files a foil job needs and a pre-flight checklist |
| Dimension Guide for Boxes and Packaging | How to measure a box so the packaging fits the product |
| What Is an IFU? | Instructions for Use explained, with formats and folds |
Ready to start a job?
Send us the specifications and we will quote it. If you already have artwork, upload it and we will review it before anything goes to press.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Have A Printing Question?
Each TPS project has a dedicated account representative to help guide you through the printing process. Have printing questions? Get answers and peace of mind today!