Have you ever had a question and either didn't know where to find the answer or were too afraid to ask? If so, you've come to the right place.

As the name would suggest, this section is a compilation of answers to the questions our clients commonly ask. Just start by following one of the links below.

1. What is a "proof"?
2. Why do I need to look at a proof if I've already given you everything I need to have done?
3. Do I still need to approve a proof if I bring my work in on disk?
4. What is involved in Pre-flighting my disk?
5. What is the accepted Software and formats for me to bring you when I create my own digital files? (Click here for a list)
6. How do I go about getting an estimate from you?

1. What is a "proof"?
   A proof is a way of ensuring that we have set your type accurately and that everything is positioned according to your requirements. Typically, we will produce a proof which will be sent to you online or printed on paper which can be viewed in our store or delivered to you in person.
   
   On multiple color jobs, we can produce a color proof on our color output device to show how the different colors will appear.
   
   
2. Why do I need to look at a proof if I've already given you everything I need to have done?
   We employ human beings to produce your work and, last time we checked, humans are not perfect. Your approval on the final proof is assurance that you have looked over every aspect of our work and approve it as accurate. It benefits everyone if errors are caught in the proofing process rather than after the job is completed and delivered.
   
   
3. Do I still need to approve a proof if I bring my work in on disk?
   Yes, all media, no matter how it arrives to us, needs to be proofed by you, the customer. Please refer to out Preflight FAQ below for more information.
   
   
4. What is involved in Pre-flighting my disk?What is Pre-Flight?
   Preflight is the process of checking a document file to be certain it is ready for output to laser printer, Computer-to-Plate, Digital Black & White Copiers or Digital Color Copier. The process verifies that all the elements necessary to accurately reproduce the document are correct and within the demanding specifications of the printing environment.
   
   How long does it take to Pre-flight my document?
   The time frame from the time you drop off your digital file is 4-6 hours. You will be contacted after this time with a proof or contacted about changes that need to be made.
   
   What is the cost?
   Standard - $45 - Any file that has at least two elements in it (i.e. text/Pictures, text/folding, two or more colors)
   Simple - $15 - Any file that has one element in it (a plain text file, a SINGLE Photograph, one color, etc.)
   
   Is that the only cost?
   No. The above prices are only for Preflighting. If there are changes/corrections to be made, you will be given the opportunity to make corrections yourself, or have our Graphics Professional make them for you at an additional charge.
   
   Is the cost waived if I send it through e-mail or your website?
   No. It doesn't matter if the file comes on floppy disc, Zip Disc, CDR or by Pony Express, the cost involved is based on what we do AFTER we receive the file.
   
   What are the steps involved in Preflight?
   NOTE: Not all preflight steps are required for all electronic documents. Please feel free to ask an Account Manager or Graphic Professional if you have any questions.
   
   1. Run a Virus Check on all data on the file.
   
   2. Check that the size of the document as quoted is the same as the size of the file in the electronic document.
   
   3. Confirm that all fonts and graphics are included with the document, and that no images are “embedded.”
   
   4. Check for bleeds and cropmarks.
   
   5. Check that the ink colors in the written job specifications are the same as in the document.
   
   6. Check for correct color spaces (RGB for full color digital, CMYK for 4-color process printing, Spot color for multi color documents and grayscale for black and white documents).
   
   7. Check screen angles and confirm that specified paper is of sufficient quality for full color printing.
   
   8. In a multi-page document, check for page-ordering (spreads, pagination and creep.)
   
   9. Confirm that trapping is active in the document, and check each color item for trapping errors.
   
   10. Check Panel sizes in folded documents.
   
   11. Open all raster images and check for appropriate color space.
   
   12. Check resolution of raster images, both before and after scaling in layout program.
   
   13. Check photos for color cast, dust and scratches. Evaluate overall quality of the image(s).
   
   14. Open all Vector artwork and check for missing fonts or images.
   
   15. Check trapping in Vector Artwork.
   
   16. Check for text reflow and proper linking of fonts.
   
   17. Check Ink densities on 4 color separations.
   
   18. Print laser copies and Rip-it Separations and compare proofs supplied by the customer.
   
   
5. What is the accepted Software and formats for me to bring you when I create my own digital files? (Click here for a list)
   
   
6. How do I go about getting an estimate from you?
   Well, since you are here, we would suggest you use our online estimate request form. Otherwise, the best way to ensure that we get all the information necessary to do an accurate quote is to give us a call and talk with one of our customer service representatives.