Print Guides & Answers
How to send your files, how to pick the right process, and answers to the questions we hear most. Simple and practical, from 30 years in print.
Print, packaging and promo in one place.
How to Send Print-Ready Files
Send a High-Res PDF
A print-ready PDF is the safest format. Send the original files too if you have them, in case something needs a fix.
Add Bleed
Extend any color or image that touches the edge 1/8” past the trim on every side, so there are no white slivers after cutting.
Keep Text Inside the Safe Zone
Keep text and logos at least 1/8” inside the trim line so nothing important gets cut off.
Use CMYK or Pantone
Set files to CMYK for full-color printing. If your brand color has to match exactly, tell us the Pantone number.
Images at 300 DPI
Photos should be 300 DPI at the size they will print. Images pulled from a website usually look blurry on paper.
Embed or Outline Fonts
Embed your fonts in the PDF or convert them to outlines, so the text prints exactly as you set it.
Packaging job? We send you the dieline. Place your art on it and send it back. Not sure your files are ready? Send them anyway. We check every file and send a proof before anything runs.
Which Option Fits Your Project?
| Option | Best when | Learn more |
|---|---|---|
| Digital printing | Short runs, fast turnaround, or every piece needs a different name or address. | Digital Printing → |
| Offset printing | Larger runs, exact Pantone brand colors, or special papers and finishes. | Offset Printing → |
| Folding cartons | Retail boxes for food, cosmetics, supplements and other shelf products. | Custom Packaging → |
| Rigid boxes | Premium gift boxes and presentation packaging that people keep. | Custom Packaging → |
| Corrugated mailers | E-commerce and shipping boxes that protect the product and still carry your brand. | Custom Packaging → |
| Screen printing | Larger apparel runs with bold, solid-color logos. | Branded Apparel → |
| Embroidery | Polos, jackets and hats that need a premium, long-lasting logo. | Branded Apparel → |
| Heat transfers & DTF | Small apparel runs, many colors or photo-style logos. | Branded Apparel → |
| Large format | Banners, posters, window graphics and trade show displays. | Display Graphics → |
Still not sure? Tell us what you need and when. We’ll recommend the right option.
Questions We Hear Most
Will I see a proof before my job runs?
Yes. Every job gets a proof, and nothing is produced until you approve it. When color really matters, we can arrange a press check so you see it on paper first.
Can you handle print, packaging and merch on the same project?
Yes. That’s what we do best. One contact manages every piece, so you don’t have to coordinate three different suppliers.
Can you store our boxes, print or merch?
Yes. We can hold your stock in our warehouses in California and Georgia and ship it out when you need it.
Can you ship to more than one location?
Yes. We ship nationwide, to one office or to many addresses, including kits sent to individual people.
How does reordering work?
Teams that order the same items again and again can get a Corporate Storefront: log in, order, done.
Where are you located?
1331 Seventh Street, Unit E, Berkeley, CA 94710. We work with clients across the country.
Do you work with individuals?
We work with businesses: designers, marketing teams, brands and business owners.
How do I get a price?
Every project is quoted individually. Send us the details: what you need, how many and when.
Have a Project in Mind?
Tell us the project and the date. We’ll take it from there.