Technical Library

General Printing Tips

Please note that the following tips are to be used after receiving a specific project template from ADR. Since each project is unique, we do not supply general templates on this site. If you have already begun a project with us, please go to Get Project Specs to receive your project template.

Please don’t hesitate to call us if you have any questions. We can be reached at 617.232.9969.

We can also provide any graphic pre-press production.

Resolution

Screen resolution is the most important aspect to remember when creating any artwork.

There is a significant difference in resolution between video and multimedia versus print.
Printing requires a much higher resolution.
Pay close attention to DPI and LPI requirements.

Fonts and Text

Pay close attention to minimum font size.
Use only elliptical dots for screen-printing.
Vector-based programs such as Quark, Illustrator and InDesign yield better (clearer) text results.

CD & DVD Label Printing

Film Positives are required for CD & DVD screen printing. Printing plates are required for CD & DVD offset printing
Please note there is NO bleed on CD & DVD label printing.
Pay close attention to line-screen and tonal ranges on screen printed labels.
Line screen is different for screen-printing than printing on paper.
Offset printing is a higher quality of printing than screen printing. By offset printing the DVD's, it will allow us too more easily match your offset printed packaging.
CD's & DVD's are silver and may alter the final coloration. When printing 4-color process or using half-tones, utilizing a white flood coat may yields the best results. We will be happy to provide consultation.
Another benefit of using a white flood coat is that printing on the mirror (inner) band can produce different results than printing directly on silver. The use of a white flood coat will result in a more even print.
All offset printed CD's and DVD's must be printed 4 color process over a white flood coat. Screen printing can include PMS colors and a white flood coat is not required.
In instances where you are creating your own template, make sure your template doesn't print (otherwise it will end up on the final product)

Paper or Cardboard Packaging

Booklets and tray cards for jewel cases, paper inserts, and cardboard packaging.

Most paper or cardboard packaging is offset printed. Offset printing requires film negatives.
Pay close attention to minimum bleed sizes.
Supply a color proof or black and white separations when printing 4-color process.
Print out artwork on your printer before supplying artwork to ADR, this will give you a better idea whether you’re on the right track.
Die templates are print-side up.
Do not alter die templates.
Cardboard templates are 100% to size, do not reduce files.
Do not add panels, flaps, cuts, or inserts of any kind.
Keep type at least 1/16" away from trim edges.
For paperboard packaging, print artwork and make a mock-up piece. While artwork may appear correct on screen, cutting and folding may help identify problem design areas.

Proofs

Always provide color proofs or black and white separations to ADR. They do not have to be color accurate – for placement only.