2. CMYK

Ensure your file is set up as CMYK rather than RGB. Printers create the colours using CMYK inks (and spot colours if required) so having your file as CMYK ensures that you aren't using colours that are outside its spectrum. As RGB is created with light you could possibly have very vivid colours that just aren't possible with the CMYK process and you'd be disappointed with the result. Before we send you a proof we check for RGB and we will convert these to CMYK so you will see at proof stage any changes in colour. 
Read more on CMYK vs RGB here. 

3. High resolution between 150 and 300 dpi

As a designer when I create my artwork I always have my files set as 300dpi as a standard. This is the best resolution that I would recommend to work with. Of course with some images this isn't always possible therefore I would say that 150dpi is the minimum recommendation for general print work (such as business cards, leaflets, brochures, posters etc). Anything less will look poor quality and pixelated.

For larger jobs, such as banners and exhibitions, you can get away with poorer quality images as with these jobs you don't inspect them at close range, but would be stood at a reasonable distance away. Therefore with these I would recommend a minimum of 75 dpi.

4. Safe Margin

A safe margin is the area within the trim edges where you want to keep clear from text or logos. We recommend a minimum 5mm safe margin in general to ensure that nothing of importance is trimmed too close to the edge. In programs such as indesign you can set up a margin in your document settings to make it easier to see. 

5. PDF file

We ask that you save/export your files as high res PDF files, not forgetting to add your bleed in the export settings. 

All the above elements will be checked before we send you a proof and we will let you know if we see any problems. But ensuring all the above pointers are followed first time round means that the process will be faster and more efficient.

However, if you do require any help with your artwork then please get in touch. We aren't computers that just reject or print the artwork regardless of any issues, we are people that will help and bring any possible issues to your attention. We want to be sure that you get the finished print that you are expecting.