FAQS
General Questions FAQs
Click on the questions so they will expand for the answer.
What quantities do you print?
We print increments starting at 250 then 500 pcs. 1,000 pcs. 2,500 pcs., 5,000 pcs and incrementally 5,000 pcs above and up to 50,000 pcs. If you need a custom quote, please contact us at 210-616-0163.
What is Gang Run Printing?
Gang Run printing is the process of created printed pieces at substantially discounted prices. One of the pitfalls of Gang-Run printing is that we relinquish the control of individual piece color to compensate for the entire run. This does not mean your colors will be drastically different, but in regards to Gang-Run printing- the industry standard practice is to accept an overall pleasing color, which is 95%-100% accurate to the image. Because of limitations with the Gang-Run printing process, the differences in equipment, paper, and neighboring image ink requirements- the accuracy of color reproduction cannot be guaranteed. By placing an order with Chile Media, you agree to this limitation.
File Separation FAQs
File Setup Breakdown
To assure the right dimensions and output of your print project, we ask that you submit your files in the following formats at 300 dpi minimum in the following (PSD, JPG, AI, PDF, EPS, INDD).
Should my fonts be outlined?
Yes, we recommend that you outline fonts to prevent them from changing when we open the files and render it for pre-press.
What causes banding on my print jobs when I use gradients?
Many things can cause banding. Banding can be caused by the program that it is exported from. Also, too many gradient steps, for example, going from a very light color to a dark color, in a small area will cause banding. To prevent this, check your digital files before sending them. If you use a gradient, make sure it has enough room for a smooth transition.
How should I set up my color workspace?
All files are to be submitted in CMYK. Files submitted in RGB may potentially realize a color shift. While this does not apply to all color gamuts, we will automatically change RGB to CMYK before sending to the press. To ensure your color quality control, please review and check your colors in CMYK if working in an RGB workspace.
What about when I am printing out blue’s. Any special instructions?
Blues and Yellows can be tricky in offset printing. We ask that you carefully check and monitor the values and registrations of your blue’s as they may print out differently than the way they are displayed on screen.
What are the bleed requirements?
All files must include a 1/8″ (0.125 inch) bleed per added to the finished size regardless if your artwork does not bleed. Example of a bleed set up for a business card sized at 3.5 x 2, the canvas size should be 3.625” x 2.125”.
What are the resolution specifications?
Do I need to include crop marks in my files?
No, there is never a reason or instance to include crop marks in your artwork. For this reason, we ask that your file be submitted with a 1/8 inch bleed all around the artwork.
Can I put borders into my artwork?
If you are putting borders into your design, make sure that the inner border is inside the safe area or at least 1/8″ of an inch or .125″ further inside the safe zone to ensure that the printed border area overcompensates any visual area that may be cut when the card is trimmed to size.
Can I include front and back images in the same submitted file?
The answer is NO. Each face of your artwork should be submitted in separate files per our acceptable file formats. An exception to this rule is when submitting catalog or calendar jobs in which you may submit a multiple page pdf.
Should overprint be turned on or off?
The answer is OFF to prevent unexpected quantity results.
How should I submit my files when ordering a Catalog or Mini Catalog?
It is recommended for catalog files to be submitted in multipage pdf’s. Our automated imposition software will do the rest.
How do I achieve a color value for Rich Black?
How do I create outlines in Illustrator?
Can you create outlines in Photoshop?
What does "too close to trim" mean?
When non-bleed information is near or on the trim line, we ask for a 1/8″ margin for all non-bleed information. To ensure layout accuracy, please use our online templates for each print product.
What resolution should my file be?
How do I convert my artwork to CMYK in Photoshop?
Fonts
All type (fonts) must be converted to outlines if you are sending us an Illustrator file or a PDF. There is no need to outline fonts if you are sending a JPEG.
Setting Up Your Files In Adobe Photoshop CMYK
Setting Up Your Files In Freehand, CorelDRAW or Canva
We currently DO NOT support native Freehand, CorelDRAW or Canva files. All files created in CorelDRAW must be exported as .EPS files or Adobe Illustrator(.AI) files. The only other option is to rasterize to a bitmapped image (TIFF or JPEG) all final artwork.
Setting Up Your Files In Other Applications
What type of files do you accept?
We accept AI and EPS files (with fonts outlined and pictures embedded), jpg, pdf, tiff, PSD files. We are not able to accept InDesign files due to the restriction on opening from other versions (please convert to JPEG or PDF). We cannot accept any Microsoft formats just as Word and Publisher (they will need to be converted to jpg or pdf).
Can I resize my 72dpi artwork to 300dpi?
Unfortunately, you cannot increase your resolution for a design that has been created in low resolution. The output will be blurry or grainy, and at times, unreadable and pixelated. The only solution to this is to redesign your piece at the correct resolution.
Is my information safe on your website?
Yes, all the information we collect is for order processing only. Your information is only used to contact you when necessary, and we do not store your payment information ever. Credit card information is only used for billing of products and services ordered.
Shipping FAQs
Can I change my shipping after I have placed an order?
Once an order has been placed, it is difficult to change. Shipping changes are time-consuming and costly. If you need to change any shipping information (shipping service provider, destination and address, etc.) after you have placed your order, you will be charged an additional $50.
Do you ship to Post Office Boxes?
No, unfortunately, we cannot send any products to the post office boxes.
How Long Does Shipping Take?
UPS Ground shipping takes an average of 3 business days depending on your distance from our production facilities in Southern California, Texas, Miami, and Florida. Other shipping options include 3 Day Select, 2 Day Air, Next Day Air Saver, and Next Day Air.
Terms & Conditions FAQs
Overruns and Under runs
Chile Media, LLC will typically deliver the exact quantity of goods ordered plus a small additional amount. There is no extra charge for the additional amount. This extra amount is usually to compensate for the industry-standard variable consistency in cuts or colors. The generally accepted trade practice is plus or minus 10%.
Payment Terms
All orders must be prepaid due to the speed of our turnaround. Under NO conditions does Chile Media print on terms or extend credit. Since each job is custom created for its owner, it cannot be reused or resold. After action on design or print has commenced, ALL SALES ARE FINAL.
Have a question not addressed here?
Contact us or call us today at 210-616-0163 for a custom quote or send us your information and someone from our Chile Media team will contact you.