Prepare your files for giclée printing
A short guide for preparing your files for giclée & fine art printing
FILES
- Always save your files in non-editable, print-ready formats like TIFF, JPEG, PNG, or PDF (preferably the first).
- Do not upload files with layers, especially if they contain non-rasterized fonts, paths, etc.
- Flatten everything to one layer (flatten image) before submitting your files for production;
- If you’re saving your files as TIFF, please choose “no compression” in order to preserve the best quality of your files;
- If you’re saving your files as JPEG, choose the highest quality possible.
COLOUR MODE
We gladly accept files in various color profiles such as Adobe RGB, sRGB, etc. While CMYK files are permissible, we recommend converting them to RGB before submission to Pigmento. All files undergo an automatic conversion to RGB as part of our printing software process (outlined in the subsequent points).
Rest assured, we understand the intricacies of the CMYK realm, including the complexities of prepress, subtractive and additive color mixing, and the myriad myths surrounding printing. Before staunchly advocating for the permanence of CMYK, consider a few essential points:
- Only utilize CMYK if you are absolutely certain about the ICM profile calibrated for the specific printing machine.
- When dealing with unique colors where halftoning and registration issues take precedence over color fidelity – a rarity in most cases.
In all other instances, there exists a significant risk of your CMYK files being converted to RGB (specifically, CIE LAB) and subsequently back to CMYK to align with the workflow’s ICM profile. Modern RIP workflows excel in converting RGB to CMYK, surpassing the capabilities of conventional software processes.
A crucial piece of advice: refrain from working or converting to CMYK mode unless you have full control over the entire calibrated workflow, inclusive of the printers themselves.
For optimal results with Pigmento, we recommend using the Adobe RGB or sRGB IEC61966-2.1 color profiles. Our state-of-the-art 12-ink machines, equipped with a diverse range of inks, eliminate the need to confine your creative environment to the traditional four colors of the graphic industry.
BLACK & WHITE
Our printers, boasting a remarkable 12-ink system that includes 2 grays and 2 blacks, enable us to achieve authentic black and white prints without the need for color additives to balance grays.
RESOLUTION
For optimal results, we recommend a resolution of 300dpi at the intended print size. Should you encounter insufficient resolution, please reach out to us, and we will assist you in resizing or enlarging your files with minimal quality loss. Your satisfaction is our priority.
Our printing machines do not apply any sharpening or any form of processing. However, during the prepress stage, we routinely evaluate the requirement for sharpening. If deemed necessary, we will incorporate sharpening into your image. Rest assured, we will promptly communicate with you should this adjustment be needed.
CURRENT MAXIMUM PRINT SIZES
Currently, our giclée printing capabilities extend up to 44 inches or approximately 110 centimeters in width (at the narrowest margin) and a remarkable 18 meters in length (on a roll). While we take great pleasure in crafting expansive prints, we approach every project, including A5 sizes, with the same unwavering commitment to quality and excellence. No matter the size, your print receives our dedicated attention and expertise.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: It is recommended that all prints include a white border (or margin). This border serves multiple purposes, facilitating the handling of the printed work, simplifying framing, and acting as a sacrificial area in the event of potential damage to the paper’s physical limits. However, we also offer the option to print with no margin.
Prior to initiating any order or commencing production, our team will contact you to confirm file compliance, desired sizes, margins, shipping details, and other pertinent information. For any inquiries or assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@pigmentocolectivo.com. Rest assured, everything is meticulously reviewed and confirmed before actual production commences. Should you have additional questions or require further clarifications, feel free to utilize our contact form. Your peace of mind is very important to us.
In summary, aim to achieve the following when preparing your files…
- TIFF, PNG, PDF or JPEG (JPG)
- Flatten files
- Adobe RGB, sRGB
- 16-bit (or 8-bit)
- Resolution between 180 and 300 ppi
What our clients are saying about us…
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Fiquei satisfeita com o resultado do trabalho para o teste que pedi, chegou direitinho -
Ótimo atendimento e qualidade de impressão
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Um dos melhores serviços de impressões artistícas com quem já trabalhei. Além um de trabalho primoroso, uma ótima gama de papéis especiais, são atento aos detalhes, com um tempo de resposta e envio muito bons e estão sempre dispostos a … More ajudar.Indico e recomendo o trabalho da Pigmento Coolectivo e especial ao Rui sempre muito atencioso e gentil.
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The best guys in this bisness! Very friendly and operative team! And of course the highest quality art prints! It’s immediately obvious from their attitude that they do their job with love and full responsibility!
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Quem dera que houvesse mais negócios assim, que juntam paixão ao profissionalismo!Todo o processo foi 5 estrelas! Desde a facilidade de perceber o que fazer (era o meu primeiro pedido), à rapidez na resposta, terminando na qualidade do … More produto final (encomendei impressões de aguarelas minhas em papel arches).Mais negócios destes, por favor! São a prova que o brio tem tudo para dar frutos!Bem-hajam!
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Ótimo acompanhamento e uma excelente qualidade de impressão.
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Qualidade do papel e de impressão 5 estrelas, apoio ao cliente durante a encomenda excelente com esclarecimento de todas as dúvidas, envio rápido e em ótimas condições 🙂
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Excelente serviço. Profissionalismo e simpatia top.
