Frequently Asked Questions

The best file format to send us is Adobe Illustrator 8.0 or earlier .eps files with outlined fonts. They'll give you the best final product. If you don't have access to Illustrator (Freehand and Corel will both export as Illustrator .eps files), a photoshop file with at least 300 pixels per inch at the final print size will work. 1200 pixels per inch will work even better. If you're submitting a multi-color job, please make sure that you put each color on it's own layer.

The best black and white decals are just that. Black and White. No gray tones in there. We have to put a pretty big halftone on any gray areas in your image, so the decals may come back to you with unexpected results.

If you're printing a one-color graphic that uses a lineart-only graphic, and you're submitting a file made in photoshop, you'll get great results by saving it as a 1200 dpi lineart .tif. I usually use the 50% threshold setting when you turn it into lineart. You can zip it down to almost nothing, and as long as your original file looks good, the graphics will turn out great!

Remember, we're not magicians... BE SURE THAT THE FILE YOU SUBMIT IS THE BEST POSSIBLE. If you give us garbage, your custom graphics will be garbage.

What is your turn around time?
Our turn around time from when we receive the art work and payment to when we ship is 1-2 weeks, (local orders 7-10 days). Sometimes a little faster, sometimes a little slower, depending on our work load. We do not guarantee graphic turnaround, but if you tell us your target date, we're happy to let you know if it's possible or not.

Can you match it EXACTLY?

The color on your computer monitor may vary from an actual printed swatch book. We are not liable for your choice of color.

Can you ship to us at a club or venue?
Yes, but this can be sketchy due to the fact that not all clubs open before 4pm (UPS usually delivers before 4pm). We are not liable for any delayed shipments or shipments that are not made because no one is there to receive them.

Can you ship graphics outside of the U.S.A.?
Yes, please contact us for shipping rates.

How do you ship orders?
We ship all orders UPS Ground unless otherwise specified. Shipping time is around 1-5 days, depending on your location. We can also ship faster at an extra charge.

Can I change or cancel my order?
As long as we have not started your job yet you can change or cancel. If we have made the cuts or have done any part of your job, you will have to cover that cost if you change or cancel your order.

Are your graphics weatherproof?
Yes, the vinyl graphics we print are top quality 3.5 mil. outdoor weatherproof vinyl with a 5-7 year average life expectancy. The inks we use do not smear, run, or fade in the sunlight.

What type of payments do you accept?
We accept Visa/Mastercard. Paypal and checks or money orders in the mail. We do not recommend sending cash. You may pay in cash when paying in person.

Paypal is a secure credit cart authorizer and one of the biggest and safest on the internet.

What types of file formats and media do you accept?
We can accept PC format CDRs. You can also send us e-mails or use our FTP form for files up to 15 megs. We can accept PC files from Illustrator 8.0 and below, Photoshop 5.5 or higher created at 300-600 DPI, .tif, .eps files created at 300-600 d.p.i., .bmp, .jpeg . Art created at 72 dpi is appropriate for screen or internet display, but will look pixelated when printed. Please print your design out on a laser or ink jet printer to find out what your design will look like.

I think computers suck, how do I mail in art work?
Send us your art in an envelope. It's a good idea to put a piece of cardboard in the envelope, and write DO NOT FOLD on your envelope so it doesn't get bent. If you need a price on shipping, please contact us.

Can I email my design and send a check or money order in the mail?
Yes, but your order will be held until your check clears. Please enclose a printout of the art you e-mailed in with your payment so we know what art goes with your order.

I found a better deal at another graphic shop will you match their price?
Probably. Please fax us a written quote from the shop or point us to their online price list. This only goes for services matching ours (ie.,printed or cut vinyl graphics, and photography). While we want to offer you the best and most competitive prices we do not guarantee that we will match prices.

Do you have the fonts that I used on my graphics?
Most likely we do have them. We recommend converting all fonts to outlines (or curves) depending on the program used. This will make the fonts able to be printed without the actual font files. You may send the font files in with your order, but outlining them is a MUCH more reliable process.

We recommend sending a hard copy proof in the mail or a .bmp, .jpeg, or .gif e-mailed to us of your graphic so we can double check that we have the right fonts.

All I want is our band/organization name on our graphics, can you do that for us?
Yes. We can do the design for you for $60/hour. If you just want very simple text, we'll bill you at less than our normal half-hour minimum, and you can get out of the deal for $12.50. If it gets more complex, or we have to make a bunch of changes, you'll be charged more.

I need a custom size graphic can you do that?
Yes, just give us a call or email for a quote.

I need a custom shaped graphic, can you do that?
Yes, just e.mail us the shape you want and at the size you want. Include how many graphics, and number of colors. We'll get you a quote in a day or two. There are fees for creating custom graphics which makes small orders of graphics quite expensive.

Vinyl Graphic Application Instructions

Your vinyl sticker will consist of three layers. The top layer is the application tape (through which you can see the vinyl sticker.) The middle layer is the actual vinyl sticker of the graphic you have chosen. The bottom layer is the backing paper for the vinyl sticker.

1. Choose the area that you wish to place your vinyl sticker carefully. These stickers are intended for permanent applications meaning once the vinyl sticker's adhesive touches the surface it is very difficult if not impossible to remove without damaging the graphic. The vinyl sticker can be applied to flat or curved surface areas and should be applied while the surface temperature is between +50 degrees and +90 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Clean and dry the area thoroughly. You may use a razor blade and glass cleaner to scrape off debris from glass surfaces. If necessary use a suitable cleaner for your chosen surface area and remove any wax or grease. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean lint free cloth. Any remaining residue may be removed with isopropyl alcohol and another clean lint free cloth.

3. Make sure the application tape is adhered firmly to the vinyl sticker before peeling them from the backing paper. To do this, place the vinyl sticker on a flat surface and rub the application tape over the entire graphic area.

4. Gently peel the application tape with the vinyl sticker off of the backing paper. Make sure the entire vinyl sticker is lifted off the backing paper. From this point on, you should handle the vinyl sticker by touching only the application tape.

5. Be careful that the position of the vinyl sticker is accurate, then start at one end of the vinyl sticker and gently rub the application tape to smooth out the vinyl sticker on the surface of the chosen area. Take your time and make sure the vinyl sticker will lay flat before rubbing the application tape and remember that once the vinyl sticker’s adhesive touches the surface it is very difficult if not impossible to remove without damaging it.

6. After you have completely adhered the application tape to the surface, firmly rub the application tape from the center outwards over the graphic to ensure the vinyl sticker has firmly made contact with the surface.

7. Almost done. Slowly peel off the application tape, which will leave the vinyl sticker behind. If you notice any air bubbles in the vinyl sticker you may use a credit card to gently work the bubble to the edge or use a pin to pierce a tiny hole at the edge of the bubble and gently work the air out of the hole. Press over the entire vinyl sticker once more with your hand.

8. You’re done! Enjoy your new vinyl sticker.

Magnetic Sign Care

Before You Apply Magnetic Signs
The magnetic sign and metal surface should be clean and dry. In any outdoor application, such as car signs, the metal surface should be waxed.

Application Tips for Magnetic Signs
Magnetic Sheeting holds best to flat surfaces and surfaces with slight curves. When the magnetic signs are placed in the wrong position, remove the sign and realign. Do not pull the magnetic sign to realign when it is against the surface, as the material may stretch due to resistance cause by the high magnetic strength. Make sure the entire magnet is against the metal surface (no air pockets). Do not apply to newly repainted surfaces. Do not apply the signs over sharp creases or moldings.

Cleaning Magnetic Signs
Some moisture and dirt could collect behind magnetic signs. Remove and clean both the signs and the surface with mild detergent and allow both to dry. Repeat cleaning process weekly when used in an outdoor environment. For extra assurance, remove and clean signs daily during harsh weather conditions.

Storing Your Signs when not in Use
The magnetic sheet is more pliable and easier to work with when it is near room temperature when applied. The best way to store magnetic signs is flat. Avoid laying signs on protruding objects. Roll the signs loosely. Save the box the signs were shipped in for storage.

Buy with confidence...your satisfaction is guaranteed! We only use high performance outdoor vinyl for all of our decals and you will always receive a complete kit that includes industrial strength squeegee, and detailed instructions!

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