Raff Printing Pre-press FAQ

Question

·  Can I create type in Photoshop without getting a “bitmapped-look”?
·  Do I need to supply fonts with a PDF file if the font is stored in the PDF document?
·  Why have I had problems printing “hairlines”?
·  Why doesn’t my color print out match the contract proof from the printer or the press sheet?
·  What is the proper set up for a pocket folder?
·  What is the proper layout for an 8-1/2” x 11” tri-fold brochure?

Answer
· Can I create type in Photoshop without getting a “bitmapped-look”? Photoshop has a new vector type feature that should be used. Once the file is complete, the photoshop (.psd) file must be flattened and saved as an EPS file. Still, the best method would be to create type in a Page Layout program such as Quark or Indesign. [ Back to Top ]
· Do I need to supply fonts with a PDF file if the font is stored in the PDF document? It would not be necessary unless you would request changes to the PDF file, in which case we would need the fonts used to make any type adjustments. [ Back to Top ]
· Why have I had problems printing “hairlines”? A hairline in many applications is considered .25 pts, but is technically the thinnest line an output device can produce. With high-end output devices like our plate setter (2500 dpi), a hairline will appear broken or possibly not even visible. To avoid this, create the line thicker than .25 pts; ideally .5 pts or thicker. [ Back to Top ]
· Why doesn’t my color print out match the contract proof from the printer or the press sheet? All color printers display color differently based on different inks, number of inks used and technologies for laying down the fluid pigments on paper. Most people print to color ink jet or laser printers using the most basic settings and no calibration. Conversely, printers use highly-sophisticated proofing equipment that is calibrated and profiled to match the printing press. These proofing devices apply a higher resolution and also use purer and more consistent pigments, therefore producing a much closer match to the press sheet. Generally, you should use your color print out to show general color usage or positioning, not color accuracy. Also, expect your color print out to vary from the printers contract proof. [ Back to Top ]
· What is the proper set up for a pocket folder? A standard pocket folder when finished and folded is 9” x 12”. However, the file should be set up as the folder would be when opened completely. The overall size would be 19-1/2” x 16” which would include a 4” pocket on both sides as well as 3/4” glue flaps on the outside edge of each pocket. [ Back to Top ]
· What is the proper layout for an 8-1/2” x 11” tri-fold brochure? Create the file on an 8-1/2” x 11” page (landscape) and divide the panels with guides at 3-11/16”, 3-11/16”, and 3-5/8” with the 3-5/8” being the panel that is inside when folded. Don’t forget, if it prints on two sides, the second side will have the guides positioned in reverse order; 3-5/8”, 3-11/16”, 3-11/16”. [ Back to Top ]