Small Color: General Recommendations

CRS requires that all jobs be proofed prior to full-run printing
There is no way to accurately predict the way your job will look on paper. CRS cannot guarantee color work completed without a proof.

Always send an example or 'go-by' with your document files
CRS has a very thorough quality control system. When you provide a go-by, you are helping us ensure a quality product.

Make sure all raster images are 200 dpi
For printing in continuous tone, we suggest a final image resolution of 200dpi. Increasing the resolution beyond this will not enhance the quality of your image, it will only make your file size larger and increase the production time on your document.

Bleeds
Leave room for bleed for any image or color that bleeds off the edge of the page. Do not change the document size. Just drag the picture box over the edge of the document. Allowing 1/8" on all four sides.

EPS graphics
Convert all of your typesetting curves (or outlines) when saving .eps graphics out of illustrator. This will minimize font rejustification problems during output.

Supply all fonts used in your document, or save your text as an outline.
Some newer page layout software tools have a function to prepare your files for sending to a printer. These functions gather all the parts used in your document and save them as an output file.

We highly recommend using Postscript fonts instead of TrueType fonts. TrueType fonts are not as reliable during the output process. If you are supplying Postscript fonts, remember to copy both the screen and printer fonts.

Linked images
All images must be in CMYK, grayscale, or bitmap color modes. Images must be saved in either TIFF or EPS (do not use JPEG). Be sure to update your links in the layout file whenever you alter any images after you place them.

Marks
All layout application generate their own marks based on the document setup size then add bleed and crops for trim. The only exception is if you have multiple images on one large document. Do not manually draw marks or registration marks.

Document size
The document page size should be set to the final trim size of your printed piece. For example, if your singe sheet is trimmed to 8.5x11 then your document size should be set to 8.5x11.

Tips for best results
If you must print from hard copy try not to fold the originals. Most flat color pieces will copy beautifully. If you need copies of bound books, unbind them or have CRS unbind them for for best results.