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What is the correct size with fold over bleed?

All orders with Hems or Pole Pocket(s) and other(s) MUST have fold over bleed.

Some bleed sizes are: 1" hem. The hem is called Material Over Size (fold over bleed) that the factory cuts and folds over.

Example: 216"x74" outdoor banner sign requires a 1"+216"+1 so that the edges are folded AND 1"+74"+1" dimension.
The potential filesize = 80mb

UPLOAD Example File Dimension: 1"+216"+1"=218" x 1"+74"+1"=76" Material Over Size (fold bleed dimension)

To check if your file has suitable 'bleed' Material Over Size, Use the Easy Template Maker to compare dimensions.

Is your file 'banner sign print ready'

Typically, people use non-professional elements such as tiny web images

Their banner files do not have sufficient fold over bleed.

They save as the wrong format.

They didn't use The Easy Template Maker (aaaah!. it's free!).

Watch this excellent video > #1 Thing people need to get right!

#1 Is it big enough for Large Size printing?

Typically, signs and banners are large and require large filesize.

A filesize that is too small or incorrectly saved is #1 error. Small paper documents, website logos etc are not suitable for large sign printing and will not pass automatic processes.

You will need to upload the ORDER SIZE + FOLD OVER BLEED dimensions for automatic processes to begin. If you are unsure how to create a dimension 1:1 file with bleed, we recommend you commission a professional freelance graphic designer with experience setting up and composing signage.

Common Questions: • Are the photos big?  • Are the logos filesize too small?  • Will it be pixelated? See FAQ's here.

Manufacturing size

1:1 means FULL SIZE drawing in your graphic program such as Photoshop.

Use and follow all recommendations as given by the Easy Template Maker for manufacturing correctly.

IMPORTANT! Design and Flatten your artwork files AT FULL SIZE.
A banner print ready file = large dimension ( - the same as your order Material Over Size dimension with bleed. )
If you are unable to create a really big dimension file... We recommend you commission a professional graphic designer. If your software limits will not 'save' 35,000 pixels... then you must KEEP FULL SIZE AND DOWN-Resolution to 40, 25 or 20 dpi. Ask us how here

Can I create a 50% size?

Sometimes! If your banner size is HUGE, some software limitations may be applied. We use and recommend the Easy Template Maker. The Easy Template Maker will tell you the best 'downsize' to use. Please keep in mind that SCALED down proportions must be correct for automatic processes to begin.

Downscaling files. Your best results are when you design 100% at full size 72dpi.

Dimensions and templating

Are your raw files big enough for large sign printing? We use and recommend the Easy Template Maker. The Easy Template Maker allows you generate a custom size that includes all the correct elements you need including bleed. Download the template, open in your favorite graphics program such as Photoshop. Then you can insert/overlay your graphics, Flatten and Save as a PDF...and begin your order.

What is Flattened for print?

A file that is ALL PIXELS is called 'Flattened'. It is a picture image. Flatten all layers, Vector elements, Fonts and Curves then supply a flat 'background' image only, that has your logos-texts-design as one single image. You will need Photoshop or a similar graphics software program to flatten your file. You must ONE flattened file PER Line Item.

This is an excellent video > Why flatten images?

100% = Create your file at the FULL SIZE DIMENSIONS of your order including fold over bleed.

What is 72 dpi?

Graphic design programs such as Photoshop allow you adjust the DOTS PER INCH. Each pixel contains a color. For best results USE 72 dpi. Most billboards and banners are printed using 40. We use and recommend 72.
Our automatic systems strip down to 'Native' or 'Raw' meaning the software is 72 (eg.photoshop) which is converted to true 1440 digital using our duracoestatic processes.
We are not like traditional paper printing products, typically signs and banners are manufactured at large sizes. 72 is an excellent resolution for banners and signs. Your print outputs will be printed at 1440 dpi true digital twin pass 8 head CMYK. You will need Photoshop or a similar graphics software program to adjust DPI.

What is the correct format?

Photoshop PDF. You can also submit .ai, .psd, .jpg, .png however depending on their 'inner' meta data they may not pass automatic processing and may be delayed while we inspect the file. (Avoid InDesign)
If you are unable to create a Flattened Photoshop PDF we recommend you commission a professional graphic designer to help. See Design Guides.

Compose your art elements into a single page and flatten.

Compose your art elements into a single file - single page. You cannot upload a 'multi page file'.

We suggest you or your designer watch our 'How To' Videos pre-ordering. It's a great way to ensure your custom files match the required specifications needed for instant printing.