Artwork Guidelines

File Format

For best results, please supply artwork as a High Quality Print PDF, created from professional design software on either Mac or PC.

Before exporting your PDF, please ensure:

  • All text is converted to outlines
  • All images are embedded or supplied correctly
  • Artwork is set up at the correct size using the relevant DSA template
  • Bleed, safe areas and trim guides are followed
  • A low-resolution proof, JPG or screenshot is supplied for content checking

If you are unable to supply a High Quality Print PDF, we may also accept the following file types:

Adobe Photoshop .PSD
Please include all layers, paths, channels, links and fonts.

Adobe Illustrator .AI
Please convert all text to outlines and include any linked images.

InDesign or QuarkXPress files
These are not recommended for large format print. If your artwork has been created in InDesign or QuarkXPress, please export and supply a High Quality Print PDF.

Templates

Artwork templates are available for many DSA products and display systems.

Please use the correct template for your product size and display configuration. This helps ensure your artwork is set up correctly for print, finishing and installation.

If you are unsure which template you need, please contact the DSA team before supplying final artwork.

Resolution

For large format printing, the best results are usually achieved when images are supplied at 72–125 DPI at final print size.

Artwork supplied at a higher resolution may create very large files without a noticeable improvement in final print quality.

Please avoid using low-resolution images, screenshots or web graphics, as these may appear pixelated or blurry when printed at full size.

Colour

All artwork should be supplied in CMYK colour mode.

If artwork is converted from RGB to CMYK, colour shifts may occur. Please check and proof your colours before submitting final artwork.

Pantone or spot colours can be requested, but exact colour matching is not always possible across all print materials and production methods.

Printed samples, screenshots and desktop printouts should be used as a layout reference only and not as an exact colour guide.

If a colour proof or reference is supplied, please clearly label the file as Proof.

Rich Black

For rich black areas, we recommend using:

C20 M40 Y60 K100

Avoid using registration black or overly heavy ink coverage, as this may affect print quality and drying time.

Artwork File Naming

To help us process your artwork quickly and accurately, please name your files clearly and include the relevant template, product or project reference.

Avoid generic filenames such as:

  • artwork.pdf
  • final.pdf
  • file1.ai
  • print_ready.pdf

Recommended file name format:

[Template Name]_[Client Name or Project]_[Panel or Version].pdf

Examples:

  • BannerBug850_ABCCompany_Ver2.pdf
  • VizFrame2400_DisplayExpo_Front.pdf
  • VizFrame2400_DisplayExpo_Back.pdf
  • CustomMediaWall_ClientName_PanelA.pdf

For custom projects with multiple panels or graphics, please include a PDF proof or key showing where each file is intended to be used.

File Transfer

Please compress large artwork files before sending.

Preferred formats:

  • .zip
  • .rar

Large files can be supplied via your preferred file transfer service or as advised by the DSA team.

Please ensure all linked images, proofs and supporting files are included.

Proofing

Artwork is checked before production to confirm basic setup, sizing and print readiness.

If a printed proof is required, please allow additional production time. Final production and delivery timelines may be affected while proofs are produced, reviewed and approved.

Please note that artwork proofing is intended to check layout, size and content placement. It does not guarantee exact colour matching unless a specific colour proofing process has been arranged.

Turnaround Time

Turnaround times depend on the product, print method, quantity, artwork approval and current production schedule.

As a general guide, many standard print orders can be produced within 3–5 working days from approved artwork, plus delivery time.

For urgent orders, larger quantities or custom display systems, please contact the DSA team for an accurate production schedule.