PurpleMonkeyPrinting.com : : Online Printing Resources : : Templates, Tips to Get the Best Prints, FAQ's, Order Processing

For the best results, please use our product templates that show trim, safe margins and bleed lines. It is important that you save your file with template layer turned off, otherwise these lines will print.

Trim

Please remember to keep all important information at least .125" from the edge to ensure that vital information doesn't get cut off when your project is trimmed.

Bleed

Please extend background colors or images .125" past the trim mark. This will elimnate unwanted white borders from showing.

CMYK

Please make sure your file is converted to CMYK color. It is the most accurate way to achieve color results.

Convert fonts to outlines

Text can be converted to paths in Adobe Illustrator. This will fix upload errors that are a result of fonts not being embedded properly. In order to ensure that your fonts are accurate and print clearly please use the following steps in Adobe Illustrator:

1. Select text

2. Click Type Menu > Create Outlines

3. Save and now you're ready to upload your file.

Resolution

Resolution refers to dots per inch (dpi). Your documents must be prepared at 300dpi at 100% of the final print size.

Acceptable file format

We only accept PDF's and it must be distilled as “Press”. Contact us for advice on making PDF files.

Do you offer graphic design services?
Yes! If you have an inquery about our Creative Services, simply send an email to our design and marketing experts. For more information regarding our design services and pricing click here.

What file formats do you accept?
We prefer “Press Ready” PDF files.

Do you accept Microsoft Word and Publisher Files?
No, they are not compatible. Please contact us for advice on how to export a PDF from these softwares.

What image resolution should I use?
We accept files at a minimum of 300 dpi, nothing less.

Should I use CMYK or RGB?
Submitted artwork should be in CMYK color mode. Artwork submitted in RGB will be converted to CMYK which may cause color shifting. To ensure proper color management, you should always start and complete your artwork in CMYK color mode.

How do I make sure that the blues in my artwork don’t come out purple?
Blues and purples are very close in the CMYK color spectrum causing the colors to take on characteristics of one another. To keep this from happening use a 30% difference in Cyan and Magenta ink values to keep blues looking their best.

How do I use rich black in my artwork?
Rich black is a combination of solid black and CMYK inks to produce a tone that is darker than black ink alone. A value of 100% K may not produce the black tone that a piece of artwork needs. Use C 60, M 40, Y 40, K 100 ink values to render a rich black tone.

Where should I set up bleed lines?
Bleeds need to extend at least .125” beyond the cut line. Make sure you place all text, designs and images within the cut line. Bleed lines and cut lines are set up and defined in the templates.

How should I layout my printing piece to comply with USPS mailing regulations?
Please visit usps.org to make sure you printed material complies with USPS mailing regulations. PurpleMonkeyPrinting.com is not responsible for art submitted incorrectly.

Do I need to impose my business cards 8-up or 10-up to a sheet?
You do not need to impose multiple business cards to a sheet. Just submit the business card and our PrePress Team will properly impose the business cards to a sheet in the most cost-effective way.

Why do I need to look at a proof when I have already submitted my materials?
It is important to look at a proof because it is the customer’s responsibility to check that all text, colors and placement of images and designs are accurate prior to printing. Proofs are very beneficial and help to ensure the the highest quality final product.

Is the final product going to perfectly match my monitor?
No. All monitors render color differently so there is no way for print to match exactly.

When can I get a proof of my job?
Electronic proofs will be available immediately in PDF format. Hard copy proofs are available on a request only basis and cost an additional fee.

What delivery options are available for my printed materials?
We ship all orders UPS and offer 5-7 day standard, 2-4 day rush delivery and 24 hour rush delivery. Additional fees will be charged for 2-4 day and 24 hour rush deliveries.

What is the cost of shipping?
Shipping costs are calculated on an order-specific basis. Factoring into the cost of shipping are the number of boxes being shipped, the total weight of the shipment, the ZIP code being shipped to and the type of delivery (5-7 day, 2-4 day, 24 hour rush).

Will sales tax will be charged?
Applicable sales tax will be charged.

Can you mail my print piece if I send you a mailing list?
Not at the moment but we are working to develop this service in the near future.

1. Click on the product line you are interested in.

2. Choose 'Upload Your Own Design' or pick any one of the Art Folders that best describes the type of printing you are interested in.

3. If you choose to use Purple Monkey Printing art, start by selecting the design of your choice.

4. Click 'BEGIN'

5. Use the 'JOB NAME' field to identify your project.

6. Enter order QUANTITY. (ignore any pricing that is shown, it's not accurate until other steps are complete)

7. Scroll down to 'PERSONALIZATION' field. This is where you enter any text that you would like to include.

8. Scroll up, then click on 'UPDATE PREVIEW' to see your changes

9. Scroll up and click on 'UPDATE PRICE' to ensure you have accurate pricing.

10. Select 'FULL-SIZE PREVIEW' for a PDF proof. Please check your work carefully.

11. Scroll down and click on the 'NEXT' field to continue processing

12. Choose paper type, then update price again to see revised pricing

13. If Quantity and price are correct, click on the 'I APPROVE' field to continue.

14. Click 'ADD TO CART'

15. Enter your 'REQUESTED SHIP DATE'

16. Click on 'SAVE' field.

17. Click on 'CHECK OUT'

18. Enter 'PAYMENT METHOD'

19. Click 'NEXT'

20. If everything looks accurate, click 'PLACE MY ORDER'. If you wish to print a copy of your order, a 'Print this Page' option is now available.

* If you want to save your work to enable you to make a quick reorder at a later date, just click 'save'.