We work with two basic formats for graphic images: vector and bitmap.

A bitmap (or raster) image is made up of coloured squares called pixels. Scanners, paint and photo editing programs like Adobe Photoshop, Corel Photo Paint and Paintshop Pro produce these types of files. Bitmaps are great for photos and graphics with shadows, gradients and 3D effects, but they need to be prepared in a size and resolution suitable for the intended output. For most sign work outputs we work at round about 100-150 pixels per inch of output (or 60 pixels per cm). So if you want a 20x10 cm print at best output, the file needs to be 1200 x 600 pixels. When scanning, work to this formula on the longest side you are printing:  

Output size (cm) divided by original size (cm) x 60

For example if you have a 10cm x 10cm picture to scan and want it printed at 40cm x 40cm then you would scan at 40/10x60 = 240 dpi. Always scan at higher rates rather than lower. (Substitute 150 instead of 60 for inches). For billboards and large banners and signage not meant to be viewed close up, we can half those figures to 30 or 75 for inches

Bitmap files for wide format digital printing are often very large in size. Adjusting the colour of a bitmap image can be difficult, large files can take a long time to load and manipulate. When bitmap files are scaled there is a loss of quality as the scaling process must add to or remove pixels from the image. Common file types for bitmaps are: TIF (or TIFF), JPG, BMP

Vector images consist of objects and shapes outlined by lines and curves that are defined with mathematical formula. The objects in vector images can be scaled individually or together without any loss of quality. The colours of individual objects can be easily changed. Vector files are normally much small in size than bitmap files. Programs like Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw and CAD programs produce vector images. Only vector images can be used for computer cut vinyl graphics. With a vector image you don't have to worry about dpi. Common file types are: CDR, AI, EPS, WMF etc.

You can also submit your artwork as a PDF file. PDF files can contain both vector and bitmap components and their size can vary accordingly.  

Preparation Guide

•  All files should be full size if possible or a direct scale (50%, 20% of the final size).
   Use the formula above to calculate the required dpi.
•  Text should be converted to curves and files formatted for PC.
•  For accurate colour matching use PMS colours

Recommended file formats in order of preference: Vector files: Corel Draw X3, Adobe Illustrator CS2, EPS or PDF Bitmap files: Corel Photo Paint X3, Adobe Photoshop CS2, TIF, BMP, JPG or EPS

You can submit you artwork via email (up to 5 MB in size) or on CD or DVD

Please do not hesitate to contact us should you require further information or have any questions at all.  

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