1. The most commonly made mistake is not using our templates and settings.
Our templates are blank InDesign files already set to our specifications. We don't use pre-designed templates or boiler-plate design, giving you total control. There's no reason not to use them and your project will go more smoothly, with better results, if you do! Visit the Preparing Your Files page to download them.
2. Incorrect bleeds
If you have images that bleed off the pages, make sure they extend past the trim line, all the way to the bleed line. If the images don't extend all the way, you probably won't get a true bleed on the page. Please see this image for a detail.
3. Omitting crop marks
Remember to include crop marks in your files! If you used our templates and export settings, crop marks will be added automatically. If you have used other software and have not included crop marks, we won't be able to produce your book and you will be charged the File Review Fee ($50).
4. Setting up Dustjacket and Softcover files incorrectly
Often we receive incorrect dustjacket and softcover files which are set to an incorrect size, have text too close to the folds, an incorrect spine width, among other issues. These documents can be tricky to set up, and for a minimal charge we can set them up for you. Contact us for more information.
5. Leaving your Black and White photos as RGB files
With our printers, it is best to set your black and white TIFFs to Greyscale and color TIFFs to Adobe RGB (1998).
6. Using PSDs or JPEGs
These two formats are popular among photographers, especially those practiced in the digital realms, but should NOT be used to create your layout in InDesign (or any other page layout software). Neither of these file formats was engineered for print, and re-purposing them can result in poor print quality and file errors. JPEG was developed for web use and significantly compresses your file's data, creating a lossy image. PSD has the opposite problem: it has too much data. They contain layers (even those hidden from view) and information that can "gunk" up your PDF, causing file and postscript errors once exported. They also cause print quality problems. Use a TIFF!
7. Not generating a PDF and sending us an InDesign file instead.
We require a print-ready PDF to produce your book. Without one your project will be delayed and you will be charged the File Review Fee ($50). In our Preparing Your Files packet, we have included export settings and instructions about this important step.
8. Not submitting a completed Specs form
Without all of your information and important details about your project, we cannot begin work on your book. The Specs form is included in the Preparing Your Files packet.
9. Not including your fonts
Please include your fonts when you send us your files. We will need them when we begin printing your book. If we don't have them your project may be delayed.
