Prepress

Prepress

At Coast Label Company all prepress work is performed in house by our team of specialists. By having the entire label engineering and production process under one roof we are able to control the development of your label project from start to finish.  This ensures quality, speed, and cost control.

Our prepress process, along with the rest of our manufacturing operation, operates with an ISO 9001:2008 Certified Quality System. We have defined repeatable procedures to ensure consistent quality.

Coast Label is also a L.I.F.E.® Certified Facility–proof of our commitment to responsible environmental practices in the production of your order. We recycle all plate making materials and chemistry as part of our commitment to maintaining the smallest possible environmental footprint.

Click here for information on how to prepare and submit artwork.

Prepress FAQs

What vector formats do you accept?

Adobe Illustrator, In Design, PDF & EPS.

What is the difference between a vector file and a raster file?

A vector file is a collection of connected lines and curves that produce objects in an art file. Vector files are defined by math, not pixels. They can be scaled to any proportion while maintaining clarity.  Colors can be changed, trapped and separated with ease. Unlike raster files, quality is not limited by dots per inch. A raster file is a collection of dots called pixels.  Each pixel is a tiny colored square.  When an image is scanned or photographed, it is converted to a collection of pixels called a raster file.

If you would like to see an example of the visual differences between what the printed text would look like from a vector file and a raster file please click the link below:

Click here for a Demonstration of a vector file vs a raster file.

What if my file is not high-resolution?

Our friendly staff can help you make decisions regarding your artwork.  If needed, we can work with you to improve the quality of your label artwork.

Why should I convert my fonts to outlines or curves?

To avoid font issues, all text vector file need to be converted to outlines.  Converting the text before it is sent is essential in ensuring that we receive the text as you wish to have it. In unconverted files, a different font in our library may replace your desired fonts, changing the appearance of your text.

How do I submit artwork?

Please email art files to your customer service representative.  Files too large for email may be uploaded to our FTP site.  Call your representative for instructions on how to do this.

What is the smallest font you can print?

In most cases for spot colors we recommend fonts to be 4 pt. or larger for positive text printing and 5.5 pt. bold for reverse text printing, using sans serif fonts.  Avoid process reverse builds smaller than 12 pt.

Can my artwork have full bleed?

Yes.  A die-cut label can have full bleed.  Your artwork should be provided with 1/16” bleed.   Any images or text that do not bleed must be 1/16” inside the die-line for print-to-die registration purposes.

Can you create my UPC barcode?

Yes, we have the software to create your barcode for you.  Simply give us the number and we will show the barcode on the electronic proof.

When will I receive a proof?

We always provide a proof for your approval before we print.  Once we receive your purchase order and art files we will supply a proof within 24 hours.