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Tips & FAQ

Colorful buildings. Colorful personalities.
Colorful work. Uptown puts the color in printing.

General Printing Tips from Adobe

Set a print bleed

https://helpx.adobe.com/indesign/how-to/set-print-bleed.html

How to Package Files for Handoff?

https://helpx.adobe.com/indesign/how-to/indesign-package-files-for-handoff.html

How to Share to PDF?

https://helpx.adobe.com/indesign/how-to/save-share-projects.html

FAQ’s

What size sheets can be run on your digital presses?

We can handle sheets sizes from 8.5”x11” up to 14.33”x26” – our standard press sheet is 12”x18”.

What weights can the digital press handle?

75 to 352 gsm (or 20# bond to 130# cover).

What is the preferred file format for digital printing?

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.

What is the best way to prepare files for submission?

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.

What is “bleed”, and how much should be added to my file?

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.

What are the optimal requirements for images and graphics for digital printing?

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.

What is the difference between the RGB and CMYK color space?

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.

Will my monitor’s colors reflect what will be digitally printed?

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.

Why are there potential issues when printing PMS colors?

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.

Does Uptown Color provide variable data printing?

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.

How do I submit a file to Uptown Color?

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.

What is the typical turnaround time for standard jobs?

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.

What type of Binding/ Finishing does Uptown Color offer?
  • Saddle-Staple
  • Wire-O
  • Plastic Coil
  • GBC Plastic Coil
  • Automatic Scoring and Folding
  • Tabbing
  • Shrink-Wrapping

Direct Mail FAQ’s

Does Uptown Color offer any direct mail services?

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.

What type of file format does my mailing list need to be in?

We prefer comma separated files (.csv), with the top row being the title of each data field.

Is my mailing list sold or shared with anyone?

No. We keep your files private, and they are never traded or sold.

Do I need to have my own bulk mailing permit?

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.

Do you purchase mail lists for customers?

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

.PDF and an .INDD version
  • 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
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OUR PORTFOLIO

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Football Program

Stickers

Banners

Event Tickets

Invitations

Tent Card

Testimonials

I have been working with Tami Amburn for over 15 years. I can always rely on Tami and her team at Uptown Color to help me with whatever printing project I have. Their detail to…

- Michelle Hastings Simon, Sonabank

I am a local pet portrait artist who has been using Uptown Color for the last 10 years. They produce my business cards and most importantly – reproduction Posters & Note Cards from scanned images…

- Carolyn Kipps, Artist US Card, Performance Marketing

“I have been working with Uptown Color for 14 years and feel as if their entire staff is an extension of my team. They are not only friendly and helpful, they are problem solvers who…

- Emily Greenwood, Elevation Advertising

“One [job] that first comes to mind would be our auction booklet two years ago, I came to the office with a publisher file, Brian had to convert the file, then reformat and of course…

- Yvonne Verno, SOAR365

“There have been so many [difficult/fast turnaround jobs], but one day I needed a poster created for an afternoon meeting. It was done, turned around and in the meeting room hours before I needed it……

- Kim Bedwell, Owens and Minor

Get In Touch

    Contact

    Address:
    1205 West Main Street Richmond, VA 23220
    Hours:
    Monday – Friday 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
    Telephone:
    804-353-2679
    Email:
    orders@uptowncolor.com

    Reach Us

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