vector file scaling for printing

[mmmPeanutButter]

Ok.  If I have a vector file (its a bezel).  The scale (vertical and horizontal) are correct within the drawing.  Now, I don't really know much about actual sizing and scaling, but my assumption is that if the scale is correct on the drawing, then you would specify the actual printing size when you print.  Is this incorrect?

Now, lets say I sent out a bezel for printing to a professional service.  And I tell them, the size from the the extreme left of the green (its a centipede) to the extreme right is xx inches, and the height should be yy inches (the vert/horiz. scale should be correct anyways).

My question is... how hard is it for them to get this right?  Is it hard at all, or should I expect that there will be no problem at all with this request?

Your input is appreciated (cause when it comes to scaling and printing of vectors, I'm an idiot).

[mahuti]

Since a vector file's filesize is somewhat independent of the file's dimensions, it is always best to create the file "at-size" If the image needs to be 30inches by 30inches, create the file at that size. Don't create it at 3 x 3 inches and ask for it to be scaled up. You're just inviting more problems that way. An intelligent prepress guy can get the scaling correct very easily... but many, many, many people in printing are far from this (I know from experience) Don't get me wrong, plenty of smart guys, too, but if you can correct a potential problem from the start that's best.

So. what I would suggest is that you scale the file up (or down) to the correct size yourself & change the document size as well. Look at the detail. If it looks fine, then you are cool. If it doesn't, just post any issues you find here, and I will make suggestions on how to correct them (potential problems include stroke weight & mitering changes, accidentally locked layers, etc)

When this goes out for printing, there are THOUSANDS of methods & pieces of equipment they could use to process your file, so it's best to lessen the amount of work / changes they will need to make to accomplish your needs.

If you are having too much trouble changing the size yourself, then your printer might have better luck, but it's worth giving it a try yourself first.

[mmmPeanutButter]

Ok, so the problem is this.  I have sent the file in.  I have since received the print and it is the wrong size. 

From their website: "Order a size to perfectly fit your conversion cabinet."

That would lead me to believe that they could size it properly.

So the situation that I am in is this:  I have a print that, though looking amazing, is the wrong size.  My only course of action now is to complain.  I just wanted to see is I had the basis to complain.

I'm a little fed up.

I'll let you know how it goes.


(and I really don't have any idea how to scale the file to the "proper" dimensions.)

[mahuti]

If you gave them the specs, and they were accurate, and the company screwed up, just give them the facts, and tell them what you want done about it politely. You will probably get your way.