Signage Art FAQ
What is raster art? Raster images, also known as bitmap images are defined by a grid of dots, or pixels. This is similar to if you were to view a newspaper under magnification. Raster images are dependent upon the number of pixels and cannot be enlarged without producing noticeably jagged, stair-stepped edges. They are produced by digital cameras, scanners, and can also be created by programs like Adobe Photoshop® and Corel PHOTO-PAINT®. We will accept raster artwork files saved in an Encapsulated Post Script (.eps) format, or an Adobe Photoshop® Document (.psd) up to Version CS2. However, there will be an hourly art fee for raster images as they will need to be converted to a vector cut file. For our purposes, all raster elements and art files must be saved at 100% of the final cut size with a resolution of at least 300 ppi. If you have any questions, please call us at 888-942-9518.
What is vector art? Vector artwork stores geometric information about lines and shapes. They can be scaled easily without producing the stair-step edges you will see on raster images. They adapt to the resolution of any output device so are considered to be resolution independent. They are generally produced in programs like Adobe Illustrator® (.ai)and CorelDRAW® (.cdr).
What Formats of art do you accept for custom signage? As with any digital process the better the image the better the final product. We will accept your image in the following formats: CorelDRAW® (.cdr) up to Version 12; Adobe Illustrator® up to Version CS2; Encapsulated Post Script (.eps); and Abobe Photoshop® Document up to Version CS2 at 100% of the final cut size with a resolution of at least 300 ppi. Jpegs are most often useless but can be replicated for custom signage at an hourly art fee.
How much detail can be captured in my signage? At this time, we are unable to produce full color images such as photographs for our signage. We are also unable to produce signage using any halftones. We produce signage using solid blocks of color. We can achieve details such as shading, highlighting, etc. by using various tones of vinyl. Tiny lettering is difficult to read from a distance. Letter should be no smaller than ¼”.
Are there restrictions regarding the size of my design? The size of you design will depend upon the size of your substrate. We will most often give a 1”-2” border around your design to allow for seams, rivets, or other components of the substrate.
Can I request an estimate before vinyl application? The most accurate estimate will depend upon the following; the type and approximate amount of vinyl usage, if artwork is ready or needs to be recreated for computer cutting, the type of substrate your design will be applied to, and the time and labor involved in vinyl application.
What colors can I choose for my design? We stock all of the basic colors (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, white, and black) and two metallic colors. Custom colors can be ordered at a minimal fee. For the most visible and attractive signage, we recommend that you use a color that contrasts with the substrate.
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