TECHNICAL INFORMATION & GUIDELINES

You may email your files to artwork@accentsigns.com

There are two basic types of graphic files:

The first is a "raster" image. Raster images are made up of thousands or millions of dots or pixels. This type of image is commonly called a bitmap image. Some common raster format extensions are as follows: JPG, BMP, TIF, PCX, PSD, (Photoshop, Photo-paint, digital cameras, scanners, etc.) Raster images are quite large in file size. When resized there is often loss of quality

The second file type is a "vector" image. Vector images are created with lines and curves. Some common file extensions associated with vector files are: AI, EPS, CDR, WMF, and native file formats for Corel Draw, Adobe Illustrator, FreeHand, and various sign programs. Vector images consist of the necessary information for a plotter blade or router to follow and are generally small in file size. They can also be resized without loss of quality.

The type of output desired dictates the appropriate file type required. In many cases our graphic artists can convert whatever file type that you have, into the file type that we need. There is usually an additional art fee for this service.

For designs that are to be cut out of vinyl, i.e. vehicle and boat lettering, and most outdoor signs, the preferred file type is a vector format. There are a number of considerations in order to to keep your costs down. When exporting graphics that include type, please convert to outlines, curves or paths. This will eliminate the need to send fonts.

If your file requires editing due to overlapping shapes, "stroked" outlines that have not been converted to outlines, etc., you will be charged at our hourly shop rate. We will notify you to discuss the particulars and get approval before beginning.

For designs that are to be printed, i.e. posters, photographs, etc., either a raster or vector file type will work well. There are a few things to keep in mind in order to achieve the best results. Many color systems are hard to match, therefore please send an accurate color copy of the image, color chips or color reference (use Pantone coated), we will match as close as possible to accommodate your choices.

Scanned Images must be clear and sharp (a little blur when increased in size exaggerates an imperfection) Scanned White: an image that has white or light areas (like pale yellow), will have a dot pattern. If you want a clean area please edit it out. Clean white areas will have faint cyan and magenta lines that are visible when viewed close up. (This is called "sparious writing," common in electrostatic printing) CMYK files are preferred.

Artwork Photographs (semi glossy preferred). Original artwork (not recommended for possible loss or damage in shipping). We do not recommend using text in Photoshop.

If your image requires editing due to poor quality artwork, photography, etc., you will be charged at our hourly shop rate. We will notify you to discuss the particulars and get approval before beginning.

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Export File Formats: PC
.TIF (Tagged Image File)
.EPS (encapsulated Postscript)

The following file types can be saved in their native format;
Photoshop files (any format) Ver 6
.CDR (CorelDraw) Ver. 9 (convert text to curves/graphics)
.AI (Adobe Illustrator)Ver 9 (include all fonts)
.PM (Pagemaker) (include all links)
SignLab V.4.95
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Please call if you have any questions!

E-Mail us, or phone us at (850)678-5034