File Setup
Artwork Specifications
For best possible output, please supply original layered files in .pdf or .eps format set to CMYK color in vector format or set to 300 dpi. Transparent elements should be flattened.
Bleed & Safety: Be sure to add 1/8″ bleed to each side. In addition, it is important to keep all critical content within the safety area to ensure that this information does not get trimmed during the cutting process.
Font Considerations: We request that all text be converted to outlines. If variable data is requested, please supply any necessary fonts if they are uncommon.
ARTWORK FILE FORMATS
Acceptable Formats: .pdf, .eps, .ai, .ps, .indd, .psd, .jpg, .png, .bmp and .tiff files @ 300dpi.
Unacceptable Formats: We CANNOT accept Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, or Publisher files. Please do not submit artwork taken from the web. It is generally very low resolution 72 dpi and will not print well.
BEFORE SUBMITTING YOUR FILES
We highly encourage you to spend time looking for any spelling, numbering, or typographical errors before submitting your artwork for printing. If corrections or modifications need to be made after the proofing process, there will be a fee, as the pre-press process will have to be repeated in order to incorporate the new changes.
Data Specifications
If you would like each card to contain a unique number, name, and/or variable data, be sure to leave that layer editable in your artwork and provide the font if it’s uncommon. For sequential numbering, just let us know the starting number. For example, if the first card displays 1001 and sequential numbering is requested, the next card will display 1002, 1003 and so on.
If non-sequential numbering or variable data are required, please provide a data file.
HOW TO SETUP VARIABLE DATA FILES
Your data file should contain a unique column for each field of data. In the provided example, this includes the First Name, Last Name, and Member #. A unique row should be provided for each card containing the data that will be printed on that card. In the provided example, row 4 is for Sam Jones. The card to the right illustrates how this data is output on the final card. Data files can also contain columns of data that are not printed on the card such as magnetic stripe encoding data.
Embossing : Raised letters and numbers are available in large (OCR) or small (regular) sizes. OCR allows for 18 characters per line. Regular allows for 26 characters per line. Please be aware of maximum character size limits when submitting data. Characters are usually tipped in either black, silver, or gold foil.
Magnetic Striping & Encoding : We offer low or high density mag stripes. Magnetic stripe encoding on track 1, track 2, and/or track 3 is available. Please specify your preferred mag stripe type and encoding details when placing your order. If the encoded data will differ from the data getting printed on the card, be sure to create unique columns in your data file to identify this. Your artwork should contain white space 3/4″ from the top of card when a magnetic stripe is required so the ink coverage does not interfere with the mag stripe.
Barcoding & QR Codes : We can generate any industry standard barcode you’d like. Just specify the barcode type (such as Code 128) and let us know if you’d like a human readable number to appear beneath the barcode. If non-sequential barcoding is requested, simply supply a data file containing the details. We also have the ability to produce static or variable QR codes according to your specifications.
DATA FILE FORMATS
Acceptable Formats: Data files can be created in a spreadsheet such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets or exported from a variety of programs. We accept .xls, .xlsx, .csv, and .txt files in comma-delimited or fixed length formats. A field description should be included for reference.
Unacceptable Formats: We CANNOT accept data in .pdf format or from any type of scanned document.
We’re Here to Help
If you have any questions regarding your artwork or data files, please feel free to contact us. We are happy to review your files to confirm everything is setup properly for the best possible output. We want to ensure your print project is successful!