Preparing files for print:
We prefer to receive print-ready files in PDF format compliant with the PDF/X:1a or PDF/X-3 (composite) standards.
To achieve a deep, rich black, we recommend using the following CMYK values: 30C 30M 30Y 100K. Using higher component values does not significantly deepen the black and may cause problems in the reproduction process.
The total ink coverage should not exceed 320% for coated papers and 280% for uncoated papers.
The artwork should be centered on the page.
Bleed should be 2–3 mm and must be added on all four sides.
Graphic elements such as text and logos should be placed no closer than 3 mm from the trim line.
Crop marks should be included in the file; no other marks are required.
Artwork must not be prepared as spreads – files should contain single pages. There should be one file for the entire job, or the job may be saved in several files (in which case page numbers must be included in the file names). If there are blank pages within the document, they must also be included to preserve correct pagination order.
All fonts used in the document must be embedded (or converted to outlines).
All transparencies must be flattened.
The recommended resolution for CMYK images is 300 dpi.
All elements must be saved in the CMYK color space. RGB or LAB elements are not allowed. Additional colors (Pantone) may be used only if the job is to be printed with spot colors.
Black text should be prepared using a single black color; on colored backgrounds it must be set to overprint, while on metallic backgrounds (silver, gold) it should be knocked out.
White graphic elements must not be set to overprint.
Please remember to use the correct color settings – in Europe we use the Coated Fogra39 (ISO 12647-2:2004) profile for printing on coated papers and Uncoated Fogra29 (ISO 12647-2:2004) for uncoated substrates.
For perfect binding, the first and last pages of the inner section as well as the second and third pages of the cover will be glued approximately 5 mm from the spine, which will obscure part of the image in that area – this must be taken into account when placing double-page images or important graphic and text elements.
For saddle-stitched binding – with higher page counts or heavier paper weights – page creep may occur. During layout, the inner signatures should allow for an increased outer margin while maintaining the page format, so that no important graphic elements are trimmed.
Please do not password-protect PDF files.