File Setup Guide

Please review this page as you prepare your files for print.

File Types

We prefer PDFs or vector files, but we accept a variety of file types. Here’s the full list of accepted file types (please note some custom jobs may have specific file requirements):

• Adobe PDFs (.pdf)
• Adobe Illustrator (.ai)
• Adobe Photoshop (.psd)
• EPS (.eps)
• JPG/JPEG (.jpg, .jpeg)
• PNG (.png)
• TIFF (.tiff)

Please remember to flatten transparencies and/or convert text to outlines before sending us your files.

Resolution

All files must have a minimum resolution of 300 dpi (dots per inch) at the desired print size. This means, depending on the model you use, phone pics might not make the cut. 

If your image is below the minimum required resolution, but you still want it printed, send an email to prints@potography.com and we’ll see what we can do.

CMYK, RGB, or PMS?

We ask that you submit all files in CMYK color. Some projects may require different color modes. If this applies to your project, we’ll be sure to let you know.

Bleed and Safe Zone 

Files with design elements extending to the edge of the product— such as borderless photos— must include .25” of bleed (extension beyond the cut line) as well as at least .125” safe zone (area between edge and any critical design elements).

Designs for small products, thicker papers, and custom-shaped products should use larger safe zones. Designs for scored products should apply the document safe zone value to each side of the scoreline.

Cutting and Scoring (Custom Projects)

If your project involves cutting and scoring, please add these elements as separate and clearly marked layers in your artwork.

Specialty Print Techniques (Custom Projects)

If your project involves specialty printing techniques like letterpress, foil stamping, or spot UV, we may ask for additional files and/or adjustments to meet the specifications required for your project. Please contact us for more information.

Specialty Print File Setup (Custom Projects)

Specialty print techniques like letterpress, foiling, or spot UV, may require extra steps during file setup. If your project incorporates any of these techniques, we may ask for additional files and/or adjustments to meet the specifications required for your project.

If you’re not a designer or your business doesn’t have one, we offer file setup services billed hourly.

Please note that we can set up files for print and alter design layouts, but we do not create content.

Important: Custom Hemp is not responsible for proofing your content. We will not alter the design contents or layout. We will make suggestions if we see something out of place, but it is the client’s responsibility to make sure the design, layout, and copy are free of typos and any other errors before approving the final proof. Once your proof is approved, your project will be printed according to the specifications of the approved file(s).