CD/DVD Service Artwork Templates

Top 4 artwork problems, that could delay your order:

1. Low-resolution files.
This is the most common reason a job gets delayed by artwork. We require all images and files to be a high resolution of 300 dpi (dots per inch) at the actual printable size. Anything lower decreases image quality and will not be usable. If you are unsure of your resolution, or how to check it, refer to the help menu of your program, or contact our Art Department. Images that are low-resolution originally will not increase quality if adjusted to high-resolution; they must be scanned or native 300dpi files.

2. Bleeds and templates.
We require all images to have 1/8" bleeds past all edges to allow for shift or adjustments. We also require artwork to be submitted in our templates. This helps ensure the artwork is setup at proper sizes and printable areas. View our templates for visual details.

3. Missing fonts.
All fonts either need to be converted to outlines or submitted along with the artwork.

4. Missing linked images.
Any linked images need to be supplied to verify resolution, bleeds, and layout. Each design program has a different way of checking for this. In QuarkXPress, use the Collect For Output feature. In InDesign, use the Package command. FreeHand, and Illustrator have Links menus, which will list all placed images in the document

How do I know which process I am ordering, what is the difference?

We do have a lot of templates, varying in sizes for different printing processes and master content. Knowing which process to use is the best way to narrow down which one you will need. Duplication is low-medium volume printing using photo coat laser, black thermal text, or full inkjet printing on the disc. Replication is silkscreen or offset printing on the disc surface in large volumes; this is usually reserved for 1,000 pieces or more. Details are noted in the templates for the process it applies to, and any specifications. In most cases you can choose the center hole size based upon the space needed for your artwork or master content size.

Why don't we offer Photoshop templates for Replication discs?

While Photoshop is hands down the most powerful image-editing program on the market today, it is not suited for page layout and does not handle text well at all. Text in Photoshop has to be rasterized (turned into art) and will result in text that appears "fuzzy." It would be irresponsible for us to offer templates that give our customers poor quality text. However, we will accept artwork in Photoshop, but please understand that your finished product will not be of the highest quality possible. If you must use Photoshop, our suggestion is to "force" our PDF or EPS templates open in Photoshop by using the File>Open command in the menu bar and using a resolution of at least 300 pixels/inch.