Requirements for Client Supplied Artwork

West Sussex Signs will try to work with existing artwork if you have it available but only if it is of high enough quality to produce the required output. If it is not we may have to do some remedial work on it or re-create it completely. This would of course incur our standard hourly charge.

As most signs are computer generated to some degree, here is some information to give you an understanding of what we need from you to get the best results in the shortest and therefore most cost effective time.

There are 2 types of computer created graphics images:-

VECTOR IMAGES	A vector image is a series of points mapped out to create objects. This is needed for creating vinyl cut signs so the plotter (vinyl cutter) can map where to make the cuts on the vinyl.
BITMAP IMAGES	A bitmap is a pixel based image (like a TV screen). As there are millions of pixels the plotter can not cut from these images. For digital printing we need to print photos as bitmaps.

File types we prefer:

VECTOR IMAGES

.CDR	Corel Draw files up to version 12. Make sure all text is converted to lines and is saved for the PC. Logos created in Corel Draw are vector images.
.AI	Adobe Illustrator files up to version CS2.
.EPS	Encapsulated PostScript. This file can contain both vector and bitmaps.

BITMAP IMAGES

.TIFF	Tiff files are the best Universal Bitmap available to date.
.BMP	BMP files are designed for Windows and for applications such as desktop backgrounds. This file is possible to use for digital printing but the quality is not as clear as a Tiff.
.CPT	CPT files are created in Corel Photo Paint. The quality is as good as a Tiff and offers great extra features such as layers and transparent backgrounds.
.PSD	PSD files are created in Adobe Photo Shop. The quality is as good as a Tiff and also offers features such as layers and transparent backgrounds.

1. We are PC based so all files should be saved in PC compatible formats.
2. All vector files must have fonts set to outline or curves.
3. All files should be saved as full size and should be laid out correctly.
4. Bitmap files should be saved to the correct proportions of the final layout required.
5. These files should be saved as a minimum of 300 dpi and be the full required size (any lower dpi and we are not able to produce quality final results.)
6. If possible do not save images as GIF or JPEG; in some cases they can be used but they can be very poor quality. Each time a file is saved it goes through a compression process and with each compression quality is lost. These formats were created for the internet and are basically for viewing on a monitor. When enlarged the photo tends to be very grainy.

Hardcopy

It is always best if you can supply a good quality print with your electronic artwork.