CONTACT US
for a no-obligation price quote.

Call us toll-free!
866-505-8697

Art Guidelines

File format: For optimal results, please send your digital files in a print-ready format such as PDF, TIF, or EPS. We can also accept native Photoshop (PSD) and Illustrator (AI) files, but PDF, TIF, & EPS are greatly preferred.

Here are some important tips:

• When using bitmap software like Photoshop, flatten the file to a single layer and save it as a TIF or PDF.
• When using vector software like Illustrator, convert all text to outlines, group all layers, and save it as an EPS.
• Design your graphics in RGB, not CMYK.
• Adobe RGB or ProPhotoRGB are the best color spaces to use. They avoid color shifts upon translating from CMYK or sRGB.
• Embed a color profile with your graphic.  Again, Adobe RGB or ProPhotoRGB are best for large-format inkjet printing.

File Resolution: This is dictated mainly by viewing conditions. Here are some important tips:

• The longer the viewing distance, the lower the acceptable resolution, and hence the smaller the digital file.
• At shorter viewing distances, higher resolution is required, although this yields larger file sizes.
• For most signage applications, 180 ppi (pixels/inch) at the intended print dimensions will work just fine.
• For a fine art print that will be viewed at approximately arm’s length, the digital file should be 300 ppi at the intended print dimensions.
• A bit depth of 8-bit works great for almost everything.  For high-end photo & fine art reproduction, 16-bit sometimes gives better results.

File Transfer: To transfer large files (> 5 MB) to Lone Eagle, please click on the Upload Your Files link. This will be more effective than email and simpler than FTP. Be sure to include a brief description of your job, your email address, and phone number so that we can get back to you promptly. Your digital files will be archived at Lone Eagle for future use at no cost, saving you valuable digital storage space and time.

Contour Cutting: If contour cutting is required, name your cut line “CutContour” and make sure it is designated as a “spot” color. Then save your file as an EPS. Contact us if you have questions.

Color: Please be aware that unless you use a high-end monitor and calibrate that monitor, the prints of your digital files may not match what you see on your monitor. At Lone Eagle, we use Eizo, LaCie, & Apple Cinema monitors that are color calibrated. This enables us to make corrections on-screen with the knowledge & confidence that that’s what the print will look like. A number of affordable color management devices are available to utilize in your workflow.  The increased productivity is worth the cost.