Formatting Your Artwork
MailBox Direct accepts seven different types of art files: .jpg, .eps, .bmp, .png, .gif, tif, and .pdf – Artwork files should be designed and provided in CMYK color mode.
Artwork files need to include an additional 1/8″ (.0125) of bleed on all edges, and the resolution should be at least 300dpi. For example, art uploaded for a postcard with a final trim size of 5.5” x 8.5” should be 5.75” x 8.75” with a 300dpi resolution. Please include crop marks and flatten your files prior to uploading.
Bleed is a printing term that refers to areas of color that goes beyond the edge of the sheet after trimming. The bleed is the part on the edge of a document that gives the printer a small amount of space to account for movement of the paper and design inconsistencies. Bleed ensures that no unprinted edges appear in the final trimmed document. Remember, important information should not be placed in the bleed zone because it will be cut off.
The trim line represents the final dimensions of the finished piece after it has been cut to size.
The safe zone of a printed piece represents the final size of the printed piece minus 1/8” inside the trim line. The safe zone describes an area within the cut/trim line where you can be sure important text and graphics will not be trimmed.
Resolution indicates the number of dots per inch (dpi), or pixels per inch (ppi) in a digital file. The terms dpi and ppi are often used interchangeably – dpi refers to the amount of ink dots printed in the 4-color print process while ppi refers to the amount of information stored in a digital file.
Front – The front side of the postcard is the first file to upload during the order process.
Back – The back side of the postcard, or address side, is uploaded after the front side. The back side will display the mailing address and the mailing permit.
Reference these Postcard Specification Guides to finalize your art files:
4.25 x 6 Specification Guide – PDF