Logo of Sand Storm Signs Inc. with stylized red and blue text.

FILE PREP

File Preparation Guidelines for Print

To ensure efficient production, precise panel alignment, and minimal setup time, all artwork submitted for printing must follow these standardized guidelines.


These requirements align with our media limitations and help streamline the entire prepress and production process.

___________________________________________

General Layout Requirements

Single Artboard Only
All artwork must be arranged on a single artboard.
Do not use multiple artboards in Illustrator files—this increases the risk of errors and slows production.

Stroke & Alignment
Each print piece must be outlined with a 0.01 pt medium gray stroke.
All panels should be butted tightly edge-to-edge, with no spacing between adjacent items.
This ensures precise alignment and simplifies tiling for production.

Panel Grouping

Group similar panels side-by-side based on their intended location or function:

  • Group all Side 1’s together

  • Group all Side 2’s together

This layout speeds up batching, cutting, and installation coordination.

Maximum Width & Sizing

  • For panel signs: maximum layout width is 48 inches

  • For decals: up to 52 inches wide is acceptable

Artwork exceeding these sizes may fall off the substrate or require scaling and panel splitting. Always keep art within these working limits.

Bleed Specifications (Side 2 Panels Only)

  • Add 1/8 inch bleed on all four sides of every “Side 2” panel

  • This results in a print that is 1/4 inch larger in both width and height

  • Ensure all background images and color fills extend fully into the bleed area

File Format & Delivery

  • Accepted formats: .AI, .EPS, .PDF, .PSD, .TIFF, .JPEG, .PNG

  • Outline all fonts before submitting

  • Embed all linked images

  • Flatten your file and remove unused layers or hidden elements

  • Include a reference screenshot or labeled preview for clarity

Summary Checklist

✅ One artboard only
✅ 0.01 pt medium gray stroke around each panel
✅ Panels tightly butted with no gaps
✅ Side 1 and Side 2 panels grouped accordingly
✅ Max layout width: 48" (panels) / 52" (decals)
✅ 1/8" bleed on all sides of Side 2 panels
✅ Fonts outlined, links embedded
✅ Flatten file and remove hidden layers

Need Help With File Prep?
Contact Sandstorm Signs, Inc. for recommendations tailored to your signage needs.
📧 sandstormsigns@gmail.com
🌐 www.sandstormsignsinc.com
🇺🇸 Veteran Owned Business