FAQ
Frequently Asked Printing Questions
How should I format my artwork for printing?
All graphics that will be submitted for print should be saved at 300 to 350 DPI.
Pictures and graphics normally pulled from the internet are only at 72-96 DPI and will appear pixelated on the final product. When saving your artwork, also make sure that the file is saved in CMYK color format and not RGB. RGB colors may not print the same as CMYK, so to ensure that the colors on your screen match the colors of your printed product, make sure you save your file in CMYK mode.
How do I get a quote from you?
Give us a call at 318-325-7541. We’re in the office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
What is the average turnaround time?
Different orders require different completion times depending on the complexity and the number of steps required to complete the order. Once you place your order, we’ll be happy to give you a completion date. Just give us a call.
Is white a color?
Normally, white isn’t a color at all. When white is on an image and the data is sent to the printer, it actually reads as “the absence of ink.” With color papers, however, white ink may be used if a graphic requires it.
What file format is best for submitting artwork for printing?
The best format to submit for printing is a PDF (Portable Document Format) but we also accept JPEG, TIFF, EPS, and INDD. We do accept some Publisher files, however, sometimes a small setup fee will be charged.
Will I receive a proof of the work?
Yes. Once the design is completed, we do provide a proof of the artwork for you. This is the best time to look over your project and make sure that everything is in its proper place - the colors are accurate, the spelling and grammar is correct, and if any changes need to be made. This is the best way for us to ensure that your project is flawless and exactly what you want.
What’s the difference between coated and uncoated stock?
Coated paper stock is a high-quality paper that has a smooth glossy finish designed specifically for documents that require sharp details and vivid colors. Uncoated paper is porous and is best suited to the printing of black and white text documents.
Why do the printed colors look different than on my computer monitor?
Printers and monitors produce colors in different ways.
Monitors use the RGB (red, green, blue) color model, which usually supports a wider spectrum of colors. Printers use the CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) color model, which can reproduce most - but not all - of the colors in the RGB color model.
Depending on the equipment used, CMYK generally matches 85%-90% of the colors in the RGB model. When a color is selected from the RGB model that is out of the range of the CMYK model, the application chooses what it thinks is the closest color that will match. Programs like Adobe Photoshop will allow you to choose which color will be replaced. Others may not.
What’s a bleed?
A bleed is a portion of the printed product that will be trimmed off during finishing. It allows the image to go all the way to the edge of the document of the finished project.
Can I use images from my phone or digital camera?
Yes. If you use an image from your phone or camera, make sure it’s taken at the highest resolution possible to ensure the quality of the image is preserved once it’s printed. Most smartphones and digital cameras can go up to 8 or more megapixels which is perfect for digital printing.
Can I use scanned artwork?
Most artwork can be scanned, but it’s not guaranteed. The best way to find out is to give us a call and speak to one of our representatives.
What’s the best way to send you my artwork?
You have two options for submitting artwork. You can send an e-mail to contact@cooleyprinters.com
or you can bring your artwork and files to our office.
What’s the difference with a vector design and an image (raster)?
Raster images
are series of dots called pixels. Pixels are very small square that are assigned a color, then arranged to form an image. Images can only be blown up to a certain size.
Vector images
store a mathematical formula that create the design, thus can be converted into any possible size.
Call Cooley Printers at 318-325-7541 to learn more about our services.
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