DIGITAL GUIDELINES FOR DYE SUBLIMATION

1. Software programs that we support (MAC PLATFORM) include:
   
   • Adobe: Illustrator CS4
   • Photoshop CS4
   • In Design CS4
   • Macromedia Freehand 9
   • Quark Express 6.0
   • CorelDraw (only if exported as Adobe Illustrator)
     
     
2. Save ALL files in their original (native) format. Files need to be sized for their final output (aspect ratio) and in CMYK color mode.
   
   
3. Converting FONTS (Mac platform) to path is preferred. If that option is not available, please send us those fonts in both screen and printer versions.
   
   
4. If working in a PC format, convert ALL fonts to paths. Save files in EPS mode. If working with Adobe's new "Open Type" format, please supply us with those fonts; otherwise convert to paths.
   
   
5. If working in two or more software programs:
   a. Save each component file separately (so we may edit elements).
   b. Save your file as a composite (not as CMYK color separations).
   
   
6. Include a hard copy to ensure accuracy. As a reference, specify PANTONE COLORS, UNCOATED, for specific color match up. If you have critical color requirements, allow additional time for ordering an optional strike-off sample.
   
   
7. If including bitmap/raster files, scan at a minimum of 150 dpi for final output size. When working in quarter scale = 600 dpi; half scale = 300 dpi. This will prevent "staircasing" and the jaggies. If you create in layers, please save your work in layers so that in the event we need to make adjustments to color, size or anything else we can. PLEASE GIVE US THE IMAGE IN LAYERS AND DO NOT FLATTEN IMAGE.
   
   
8. Our finishing department requests that bleeds be factored into your layout. As a general rule, add 2" to your output files (WIDTH & LENGTH), for hemming and seams. Example, if you wish a 24"x 48" piece, size the layout 26"x50" and keep all type and critical imaging to a minimum of 3" inside 24"x 48" area. Avoid designing with borders. Should you require pole pockets (3/4 -1” pole requires a 3” extra bleed, 2” requires a 6” bleed) please make allowance in your design. Note also, put critical information (design and copy) well within non-critical area so sewing won’t sew through verbiage or design.
   
   
9. When sending files via e-mail, compress all art files over 5 MB (self-extracting). If your files are
   larger, we request a disk + hard colored copy proof.

You can email questions about art preparation to artwork@southerntailors.com or call our art department at 404/367-8660.