Frequently Asked Questions
Below is the traditional "Frequently Asked Questions" page. If you find that your question is untraditional, please contact us and we'll answer it the best we can.
Artwork
What kind of files can you accept?
We can accept and work with a lot of files. If your file is completely ready to go, we recommend that you save it as a High Quality Print PDF file. This is our ideal file type that ensures the best possible representation of your print(s).
If that is not an option, we also accept PSD, TIFF (non-compressed), JPG, AI, EPS or INDD files.
Please contact us if you don't have any programs available to create those files, to see what other options we may have. All of this information (and more) can also be found in our File Preparation Guidelines sheet.
How can I get my files to you?
Depending on your location, we have a couple of options. The easiest and quickest method is our eOrder service, which allows you to upload files online. You can also mail them to, or drop them off at, our office at 914 East Vine Street, in Kalamazoo between the hours of 8am-5pm, Monday through Friday. We can accept CDs, DVDs and USB drives.
Will my print look like what I saw on my monitor?
The printers (and monitors) at Full Blown Color have been calibrated to maximize their color gamut. However, inconsistencies between personal monitors and printed pieces off of consumer printers can vary wildly. If you have a specific request or color need, please provide either applicable PMS (we use the Pantone Spot to Process color palette), CMYK breaks or a hard copy proof. We will do the best we can to ensure the closest possible match to your requested color(s).
Please be aware that matching colors is, on average, a time intensive process. To be safe, please allow an extra couple of days for us to accurately match any provided color samples.
How big can I blow up my file and still retain a quality image?
That depends on the resolution of the original file and how big you want it. Typically, we like to get files that are full output size at 150dpi or a proportional size to resolution (i.e. 50% final output size at 300dpi). Anything below those guidelines can lead to pixilation of the image.
If you can, open the file in an art program and try to blow it up to the final size that you are requesting. If it looks bad on your screen, it will look bad printed. If this is not available to you, we would be more than happy to look at the file here and consult with you as to your options.
Timeline & Turnaround
What is your regular turnaround schedule?
Our standard turnaround is three to four business days from approval of quote and/or file proofs (if applicable). Please also be aware that larger jobs may require more time; we will let you know if it will.
I have a very tight deadline that needs to be met.
Rush jobs can be accepted; please contact us directly (toll free at 800-522-0541) if your job is time-sensitive.
Miscellaneous
I'm not sure what I need.
That's okay; we're here to help. We have many different printing options and medias available, and the knowledge and experience to help you make an informed decision that will best suit your needs.
I have a very tight budget.
No problem. Let us know what your needs and budget restraints are, and we will make recommendations that will fit your budget and still impress your superiors or clients.
I need a picture scanned...that's on an old piece of wood.
As long as it's relatively flat and under 5/8" in thickness, we do offer wide format color scanning of prints. From there, we can either print them onto one of our many available substrates, or provide the file on CD or DVD.
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