Prepare your files right the first time with Sactown Signco. This guide covers everything Sacramento-region businesses need to know to get artwork ready for custom signs, banners, and decals—whether you're a professional designer or handling it yourself.
Vector files scale without losing quality, perfect for logos, text, and solid-color graphics common in Sacramento signage.
Raster files should be at least 150 DPI at final size. For close-up viewing, 300 DPI is recommended to ensure sharpness.
If these are your only options, we may still assist but expect quality compromises. Contact us to explore solutions.
Raster image resolution is critical for print clarity. Vector files print crisp at any size since they are resolution-independent.
| Viewing Distance | Minimum DPI | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Close-up (under 3 ft) | 300 DPI | Business cards, small signs, stickers |
| Mid-range (3–10 ft) | 150 DPI | Posters, A-frames, window graphics |
| Far distance (10+ ft) | 72–100 DPI | Billboards, large banners, building wraps |
Tip: Always check resolution at the final print size. For example, a 300 DPI image at 2" wide becomes only 75 DPI if scaled up to 8" wide.
Design your artwork at the exact dimensions needed for your finished sign. For example, if your sign is 24" × 36", set your document to those dimensions.
Bleed extends your artwork beyond the cut line to prevent white edges if cuts shift slightly.
Keep important elements like text and logos at least 0.25" inside the cut line to ensure they aren’t trimmed off.
All printed materials use CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black). Convert your files from RGB to CMYK before submitting. Colors may shift slightly during conversion.
For precise brand color matching, provide Pantone (PMS) color codes. We calibrate our printers daily and can match most Pantone colors. Specify "coated" (C) or "uncoated" (U) versions.
Convert all text to outlines (also called "curves" or "paths") before submitting. This guarantees your text prints exactly as designed, even if we don’t have your fonts installed.
Tip: Thin fonts (light weights, fine serifs) may not reproduce well at small sizes or on textured materials.
For custom-shaped signs, include a separate cut line layer:
Provide separate files for front and back, or clearly label layers. Indicate if back should be mirrored (for window decals viewed from inside).
If ordering multiple versions (different locations, names, etc.), provide a spreadsheet with variable text and clearly marked placement areas.
For kiss-cut or die-cut stickers, provide artwork with a cut line. We recommend 0.0625" (1/16") offset from the design edge.
Before submitting your artwork, verify:
Upload your artwork through our project form. Our Sactown Signco team will review your files and get back to you quickly if any adjustments are needed—usually within a few hours.
Don’t have finished artwork? We provide design services from concept through production-ready files tailored for Sacramento-area businesses. Design fees are quoted upfront and credited toward your order.
Learn more →Unsure if your files are print-ready? Send them to us for a complimentary review. We’ll let you know exactly what needs tweaking for the best results.
Contact us →Find quick answers to common questions about artwork preparation, materials, turnaround times, and more for Sacramento-region signage.
View FAQ →