Setup: Most portfolio or class group projects require some set-up time on our part. Portfolio set-up fee is $10-$15 per order and group projects vary from $5-$15. Fees are based on our $40 per hour rate.

Formatting: All projects should be saved in PDF format. They should be set up as a single PDF document with blank pages inserted if/where needed. We need a single file with multiple pages. Orders that require “cut-to-bleed” must be set up with proper margins. There is more information on bleeds below. For saddle-stitched booklets (stapled on the fold), the total number of pages must be divisible by four. If your pages are not in multiples of 4, you will need to add blank pages to fulfill this requirement. 

File Preparation: graphics should be 300dpi or better for proper printing. Check your files for pixilated art and broken links. Be sure to flatten images, remove unused layers, and convert fonts to outlines whenever possible to reduce processing times and errors. Please work in the CMYK colorspace.

Bleeds: If you want your project to “bleed”, set it up with room to trim without cutting into your artwork. It may be best to set up your document as 8 x 10 so that we can run and cut from 8.5 x 11 sheet. You will need 1/8” margin plus 1/8” bleed. See diagram below:

Bleed Set-Up Guide

Bleed Set-up Guide
Plan Ahead: Allow a minimum of 3 hours and as much as 24 hours for your order to be completed.

A few additional notes:

  • Saddle stitched booklets require extra time due to custom cutting and stapling. We cannot run saddle stitched book while you wait. They generally cost more as well due to custom sizes.
  • Stay away from bleeds if you are unsure of the technical requirements (see Bleed Set-Up Guide above). Bleeds can cause problems and delays if not properly executed.
  • Portfolios/projects set up with white borders are generally much faster and less expensive. 
  • Remember to leave a margin for binding of any kind. Typically, we allow 1/4 to 3/8" for the binding punch.
  • It is best to not have one drawing or text across the fold, as they will never align perfectly when coil or comb binding.