For each color layer you want to print, Make a 300 DPI PDF in Greyscale  at actual size and labelled by color, exported as single pages (as opposed to spreads.) For example a 2-color print would be: “filename_red.pdf” and “filename_black.pdf.” Repeat this process for each page and enclose full-color reference images when necessary.

For any large color flats, reduce to 80% opacity. Beware large flats may smudge and we may alter your file slightly for optimal printing. Color flats will always have a variance in color coverage, sometimes called a "tide mark."

For any areas of color-fill or block-color printing, consider adding “trapping.” These are areas which “line” and “fill” overlap each other to create a pocket of double ink, rather than white space, during color alignment. The above is an example of a poorly trapped and poorly aligned image.

There are many different ways to create color separations from a multi-colored file. Whether you use a color profile like colorlibrary.ch to automatically create basic channels, follow a youtube tutorial, or wing it, there is not necessarily a wrong way, just different ways. We have some tutorials on our resource page if you are interested

For any small typography, convert to from “live type” to outlines (cmd+o) and change the fill color from black to “registration black.” Do not set type below 7pt. Beware white type on black background will fill in slightly.

Consider printing multiple images on a single sheet, or “ganging up,” to save resources and double output when possible. Sheets can be trimmed to create multiples. On this same note, ask yourself if your project could be less pages, less ink, etc.

Be aware slight color skew and other imperfections may occur and is a normal feature in this method of high-speed high-volume printing. Think “newspaper” rather than “fine photo print.”