General Information About File Preparation

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1. File formats

We accept files for book interiors and all refinement masks (e.g. UV varnish) exclusively in PDF format..
For covers, dust jackets, endpapers and bookmarks, PDF files are preferred, but TIFF files are also accepted if necessary.

2. Important technical details

Bleed: If the artwork extends to the edge of the design, add at least 3 mm bleed.
Text:Prepare small black text and barcodes as 100% K (black only), without additional CMY values.
White elements: Make sure white elements do not have overprint enabled. Otherwise, they may disappear in print.
Marks: Registration marks and trim marks must not overlap the design area or bleed.
Gradienty: Avoid gradients below 5%. To reduce visible banding in gradients, add 2–4% noise.
Minimum colour coverage: For standard printing: minimum 5% colour coverage; For economical printing: minimum 10% colour coverage.
Minimum line thickness: Minimum vector line thickness: 0.25 pt (0.088 mm)..

3. Preparing a PDF file (recommended)

PDF standard: Save files using the PDF/X-1a standard. This format automatically handles most print-related settings.
Colours:

a) Use the CMYK colour space..
b) Convert all spot colours (e.g. Pantone) to CMYK.
c) Rich Black: For large solid areas, maximum ink coverage should not exceed: C:30 M:30 Y:30 K:100 (total 190%).
d) Recommended colour profile for colour printing: Coated FOGRA 39
e) For black-and-white printing: Gray Gamma 1.8 or Gray Gamma 2.2

Image quality: Minimum resolution: 300 DPI.
Fonts: All fonts must be embedded in the file or converted to outlines.
Effects: All transparencies and special effects must be flattened.

4. Preparing a TIFF file (optional)
If you cannot generate a PDF and need to send a TIFF file:

Flatten layers: All layers must be merged into a single background layer.
Colours and resolution: Use the same settings as for PDF files: CMYK (FOGRA 39), minimum 300 DPI.
Compression: Save the file without compression or using LZW compression.