Files for vinyl cutting must be vector/outline files (EPS or Adobe Illustrator format through CS4), with all text converted to outlines. PDF files may only be used reliably if all text has been converted to outlines. Raster images/bitmap files (including .bmp, .jpg, .gif, .tif, .psd) can not be used directly for vinyl graphics. We can trace, vectorize and clean up some scans or bitmap files if the resolution is sufficient, but this will add to the lead time and cost for your project.
No gradients, please. Files should be set up with spot colors only. Vinyl is manufactured in solid colors only. If gradients are absolutely necessary the image must be printed on our large format digital printing equipment. Please see the requirements for submission of digital printing.
Sign Master prefers if you convert all fonts before sending. In cases when this is not possible, please include your fonts with the file. Please provide a hard copy of the file to be cut or, if the file is sent via the web, a pdf or jpeg of the file for proofing purposes. Failure to set up files per this instruction sheet may result in unexpected charges for art time. If you have ANY questions, please feel free to direct them to our art department files.
Please note that some complex images can not be made into vinyl graphics, or would be better suited to digital printing.
Providing/sending files
Files may be supplied on flash drive, CD or DVD, Mac or PC.
You can e-mail smaller files (up to 12MB) to our address. Our FTP site is available for larger files (instructions below). You also may want to consider a file transfer service such as YouSendIt (below).
