Got questions before submitting my art for printing.

[Dekieon]

I am working on the art for my control panel, and I have some questions about the art before I go to submit it for printing at gameongrafix.com

1) Should I convert my art from an .ai file into a png, or leave it in .ai format?
2) If I keep it as a .ai file, should I collapse the layers into one layer and leave them separate layers?
3) The image has a layer that shows all the holes, joystick, trackball, etc that I used for lining up my art. Should I delete that layer before submitting, or would they know to turn off that layer before printing?
4) My control panel is exactly 35" x 13", when printed is the print out the exact size, or is there any shrinkage I should compensate for? I have already make the image slightly bigger then the 35x13, but I am worried that is there is any shrinkage the buttons won't be the correct size anymore.

[Felsir]

1. I never dealt with gameongrafix but Illustrator is an industry standard, so my guess is that .ai files will do. Best is to contact them to be certain.

2. Usually it is not required to merge the layers. Especially if layers have blending or transparency effects.

3. Best is to remove a layer that you do not want printed. Don't let the printer guess what layers should be switched on or off. One customer might want the drilling templates, while another might not. Providing a printer exactly what you want gives you the best chance to actually get what you want.

4. If you set the document sizes and measurements correct, there shouldn't be any shrinkage.
It is smart to provide a "bleed" around the artwork, so when the art is cut you won't end up with the blank white  paper edge. Keep in mind that it means extending you artwork, not enlarging it.

[Dekieon]

I did see the bleed setting in the document setup area, but I didn't set it. what I did was slight move the image so that it extends off the edge a bit on all 4 sides, I am assuming this would suffice?

[Wade007]

My quick take (profesional graphic designer):

1) Leave as an .AI file. MUCH more useful than a flattened PNG which is no longer a vector file. Vector files print better/safer. Ultimately, contact gameongrafix for final direction on this and what they prefer.

2) Probably OK to leave in layers. Probably not a problem either way, but if it were me, I'd keep them separate.

3) I would suggest you double click these layers in the layers palette and make them a "TEMPLATE" NON-Printing layer. You then would keep the layer but it does NOT print. The program stops the layer from printing but it still shows for other needed reasons. In addition, you can also name the layer something like "Controller Cuts_DO NOT PRINT".

4) Not sure how to answer this. Check with the vendor (gameongrafix). Typically a vendor prints EXACTLY the same size you set it up to be. If you need a "bleed" or in other words extra material in order to trim off the edge of your control panel for a more perfect fit, then set your file up for it, but I doubt highly that there will be any "shrinkage". Again, check with the printer.

I hope that helps. I haven't worked directly with gameongrafix, but I work with Illustrator/Photoshop everyday as a Creative Director.

[Dekieon]

Thanks for the replys, I feel more secure about submitting my art work once it is ready.

[shrunkenmaster]

One thing - make sure your convert all text to outlines before sending. This will cut out any font problems at the other end.

[Dekieon]

I am not sure what you mean by converting text to outlines?

The text I have is only two words, is created using the font tool in adobe illustrator, and it is on it's own layer. So what should I do to it?

[shrunkenmaster]

I am not sure what you mean by converting text to outlines?

Select the text box, then go to Type > Create Outlines

See attached pic - PM me if you need any further explanation!

[Wade007]

Yes, shrunkenmaster is correct. I agree. Good idea to convert all text to outline. Essentially making your text turn into shapes. that way the vendor doesn't have to have the typeface file in order to render your artwork correctly. Makes things more simple/safe.

Otherwise you can "package" the fonts with your artwork if you know how to do that. Or at least just send them along with the artwork. If that's too daunting of a task, just outline the lettering. The advantage of sending the fonts is that the vendor can make minor text tweaks on their end if needed.

[Dekieon]

Ah yes, I understand. I didn't think about that fact that they would need the font. I did the convert and resaved it. I did notice that the outlines that are displayed after I did the covert didn't arc like the text I had put in. Is that a problem?

[Wade007]

Not sure what you mean by "arc". the type should become an exact replica of the letterform shape and will print out just as sharp, all angles and curves.

[Dekieon]

What I mean by arc is that the text can be bent so that instead of the text being in a straight line, it bends like an arch, or a rainbow shape.

Anyways when I applied the outline, the text remained in the arc shape, and nice solid colour, but the new outline that was created travel straight like it would have, had i not applied the arc modifier to the text.

[shrunkenmaster]

What I mean by arc is that the text can be bent so that instead of the text being in a straight line, it bends like an arch, or a rainbow shape.

Anyways when I applied the outline, the text remained in the arc shape, and nice solid colour, but the new outline that was created travel straight like it would have, had i not applied the arc modifier to the text.

I think I know what you mean. You need to 'expand appearance' - see attached.

[Dekieon]

ok cool, I just did that and the outline is now matching the text.

Thanks