General Printing Tips from Adobe
FAQ’s
We can handle sheets sizes from 8.5”x11” up to 14.33”x26” – our standard press sheet is 12”x18”.
75 to 352 gsm (or 20# bond to 130# cover).
We recommend a print-quality CMYK PDF, flattened with fonts and images embedded, and crops and bleeds. We can also accept all standard formats, but there may be extra set up involved.
We can accept most any file output from the standard applications. Primarily, we work in the Adobe Creative Cloud environment (InDesign/Photoshop/Illustrator), so any files from those native applications should be fine. Ideally, we would like to get a high-quality flattened PDF, ready to print. If you are sending native files other than PDF, make sure all source files are included in the upload. Just .zip the entire package when uploading to keep it all together. We would prefer that you convert any Microsoft files to PDF before sending to assure proper layout. Call us for any specific questions you may have.
Bleed is the extra image area that goes beyond the final document size that gets cut off to allow the image to “bleed” off the sides. We recommend .125” around all four sides to accurately cut a document to full bleed.
When setting up your files, make sure your images are at least 300 pixels per inch (PPI). This will insure high quality output. Try to avoid images pulled off of the web, as they are usually 72ppi and won’t reproduce well.
RGB (Red/Green/Blue) color is what you would see on your monitor or television screen. The CMYK (Cyan/Magenta/Yellow/Black) color space is how we reproduce colors in print. There are certain colors that can’t be accurately reproduced when printing toner on paper. We recommend converting your images to CMYK for best printed results.
Every monitor is calibrated slightly differently from one another. What you see on screen will most likely be more vibrant than what the digital output can achieve. The best bet for color matching is to get an initial proof to check colors and adjust as necessary.
Unfortunately, some screen colors will not be able to be reproduced exactly.
Our digital presses use only CMKY toners so if the document has PMS spot colors, they must be interpreted by the RIP. While the simulated PMS in many cases will be close to the original, there are certainly colors that can’t be reproduced accurately.
Yes! From simple envelope addressing to direct mail pieces, we can take your Excel file (.xls or .xlsx) or comma separated file (.csv), and integrate them into printed pieces. Contact us for further details on this service.
You can submit a file through the website or by email. To submit via the website, click on the “Uptown Upload” or “Request A Quote” if you wish to get an idea of what a certain project would cost before proceeding. Then fill out all the fields, select a sales rep if applicable and pick a due date*. You can also request a proof to see a printed sample before we run.
*Please note: if you wish to get a project faster than the date that is auto-filled for you, enter the details in the info box stating when you would like to pick up the job. We will respond and let you know if we can complete in the time frame requested.
To submit via email or for general inquiries, you can contact us at orders@uptowncolor.com.
We can usually turn around most typical jobs within 24 hours. Larger, more complex jobs will most likely take additional time. Please contact us to determine the turnaround for your specific project.
- Saddle-Staple
- Wire-O
- Plastic Coil
- GBC Plastic Coil
- Automatic Scoring and Folding
- Tabbing
- Shrink-Wrapping
Direct Mail FAQ’s
Yes, whether you are looking for direct mail (standard or first class), or want to go old school and add a stamp, Uptown can fulfill and coordinate the delivery of your printed materials with ease. Our direct mail and fulfillment services are fully automated, ensuring high quality, quick processing, and maximum cost savings. We will guarantee your product arrives at its intended location on time.
We prefer comma separated files (.csv), with the top row being the title of each data field.
No. We keep your files private, and they are never traded or sold.
No, we allow you to use our bulk permit for a small free. That way if you don’t want to fund your postal account, however, if you have your own permit – we can use that and still get you the same cost savings.
Yes, we use a nationally-ranked service provider for your specific list. You can get very detailed with the type of person you want to reach (ie: homeowner, income level, zip code, etc.). This list can be generated and added to the cost of your print job, making Uptown Color a one-stop-shop for all your mailing service needs!
Templates
UC 4x6 flyer
UC business card 3.5x2- UC CD tray card 4.75x4.75
- UC event ticket 5.75x1.75
- UC rack card 3.5x8.5
- UC trifold brochure 11x8.5