Information > F.A.Q > Artwork

FAQ - Artwork

This page contains a list of frequently asked questions relating to the artwork required for our services.

If you have a question that is not answered on this page please email us info@green-cd-dvd-duplication.co.uk.

Download the printable version of this page here.

1. Why should I use HDC templates?

Our templates have been designed to ensure your job will move quickly and smoothly through our production process. Each job is allocated a 30 minute print artwork preparation slot. If your artwork is set up incorrectly your job will go to the back of the artwork queue, incurring potential delays to your job.

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2. Which template(s) do I use?

All our common templates are on the website, however if you are having difficulty in finding the correct template please contact our us on 01274 656565 where we will be more than happy to send you a template in the format you need.

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3. What file formats do you prefer?

Our preferred format for artwork in order of preference is PDF, EPS, JPEG, TIFF, Photoshop file, Illustrator File,  Indesign File (packaged for output), Quark File (collected for output). Our goal is to be flexible when it comes to artwork formats which means you are free to use most common software/programme packages.

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4. What is a pantone reference?

Pantone is a colour match referencing system also referred to as PMS (Pantone Matching System). Pantone colours are universal and so when Pantone colours are used in artwork the designer knows exactly what print colour to expect on the final job. Pantone colours are most commonly used in screen printed discs using vector artwork.

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5. How do I check if my artwork is 300dpi or higher?

There are many programmes to check the quality of your artwork. We recommend using Adobe Acrobat Professional (full version) or Photoshop. We will also check the quality of your artwork when received; if there is a problem with your artwork we will let you know.

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6. How much space should I leave for a barcode?

Barcode readers are fairly flexible in how they scan barcodes. We recommend a size of 25mm x 18mm.

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7. What's the difference between CMYK and RGB?

CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) is the colour mode a designer will use when their artwork is printed. This is because most printers print using CMYK inks. RGB (red, green, blue) is the colour mode a designer will use when their artwork is for web or visual display units (VDU) - computer monitor/ TV etc. This is because VDU’s display using RGB.

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8. What's the difference between process and spot colours?

Process colour uses translucent CMYK inks laid on top of one another to create other colours. A spot colour ink is a specially-mixed hue that is not made by combining two or more inks, but rather is a single ink of a specific colour. Spot colours can be brighter or more saturated than process colours, or have special properties, such as metallic gold or fluorescent green.

HDC Media Group uses process colours in printing packaging and discs, and spot colours when printing on-disc. Spot colours are available in package printing for an additional fee.

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9. Will the printing on my CD/DVD match my booklet or digipack?
We will always choose the best method of printing to ensure a good match between discs and paper parts. There are many variables which may affect the printing of your artwork. Our graphics team will highlight any issues that arise.

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10. What are bleed and safety margin?

Bleed (usually 3mm) is the area of print which goes beyond the crop line. This ensures the print goes right to the edge of your artwork. The safety margin is the area 3mm in from the crop line. No text or images should be in the safety margin. This ensures no images or text are cropped accidentally. (See image below).
safety margin

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11. How do I send my artwork files?

We can receive artwork on disc via post, email, or FTP. We have a 5mb email limit. If your artwork is larger than this it will need to be sent by disc or FTP.

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12. Can you help me with my design?

Yes, we have an in-house graphic design studio. Our design team are on hand to help with any general enquiries or can create whole artwork designs from scratch. Graphics time is usually charged at £60 per hour.

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13. What is vector artwork?

Vector artwork is computer generated artwork made from points and lines. Vector artwork can be edited and scaled without losing any quality. Vector artwork tends to be solid block colours and shapes, such as cartoon artwork and text. (See example below).
vector artwork

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14. What is pixel/rasterized artwork?

Pixel or rasterized artwork is any artwork made out of individual pixels. This means the artwork has a limited quality. Quality is measured in pixels per inch (PPI) or dots per inch (DPI). We recommend a minimum print quality of 300dpi/300ppi. (See example below)

pixel artwork

When the artwork is edited or scaled this effects the quality of the artwork. (See example below). Pixel artwork tends to be images and pictures with gradients.
pixel artwork scaled

Pixel artwork scaled 100%. Image becomes blurred, loses quality which creates jagged edges.

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15.How small can I make my type/font?

We usually recommend that type is no smaller than 6 points.

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16.Should I convert all my type/font to paths or curves?

Yes we usually recommend this as it ensures your type doesn’t corrupt when we place your artwork into our templates. This also protects the look you intended for your artwork.

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exclamationNeed an answer? Email or call us on 01274 65 65 65

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