Explus Print Ready Art Guidelines

Print-ready files are digital files that are 100% prepared for high-resolution printing. These files should not require any alterations, enhancements, or edits in order for Explus to proceed with production.

When your files are received by Explus, we will perform a basic review to confirm:
• The file format is acceptable
• The resolution is suitable for high-quality output
• Bleeds and crop marks are present
• All linked images are included

Explus performs a quick visual scan of files we do not review or correct the following:
• True black color settings (e.g., rich black vs. pure black)
• Spelling or grammatical errors
• Visual design elements or the overall intent of your layout or design

Explus makes every effort to ensure your files print correctly, we are not responsible for errors or omissions in the artwork provided.

ENSURING YOUR FILES ARE PRINT READY:
1. FILE FORMATS ACCEPTED:

• Adobe *Illustrator(.ai) - preferred, *InDesign(.indd). *Use the packaging feature to prepare file(s) for submittal.
• Raster Files - Adobe Photoshop (PSD), EPS, JPEG, or Tiff - Photoshop Compatible. 
• Submit single page final files for individual graphic. (We do not accept multi-page documents)

2. COLOR MODE

• CMYK
• Avoid RGB: Used for screens; will not print as displayed.
• Pantone(PMS) colors: Aid in a more consistent and accurate approach to color reproduction. It is not always possible, to match Pantone colors exactly with digital devices therefore providing specific PMS colors and a hard copy proof of what your colors should look like is recommended for best possible color matching. Requesting a color sample is recommended prior to production if a critical match is required. Note: If we have printed a graphic for you in the past or you have an existing print and you wish to match color to that specific graphic, because of the sensitive nature and many variables relating to large format digital printing you must send the printed graphic to us to match to. We cannot guarantee a color match based solely on information embedded in a previously used digital file.
• Rich Black: CMYK 70/70/70/100 RGB 0,0,0

3. FILE RESOLUTION

• 100-200 DPI: Acceptable for large-scale prints.  

4. BLEED AND SAFE ZONE

• Bleed Area: 1/2” bleed should be included, with the background image filling the bleed area. Artwork must allow for finishing (pole pockets, grommets, frames, edge wraps, etc.).
• Safe Zone: Keep all vital text and graphics at least 0.25 inches from the edges to prevent accidental trimming.

5. FONTS

• All fonts should be converted to outlines. 
• Raster file fonts need to be rasterized.

6. FILE DIMENSIONS

• Accurate Dimensions: Please make your document page size is the same as your final panel size (not including bleed). 
• If necessary to accommodate program size limitations, working at scale is permissible. 1/2 scale, or 1/4 scale are preferred. Include what scale was used in your document.

SPECIALTY PRINTING:
Wallpaper, and Multiple panel murals

• When artwork must cross over several panels, consider how this will affect the art. Type characters, or critical image elements should not cross over panel breaks, and should be 1” from the outer perimeter if possible. Multiple panels and wall murals require 2” of bleed on all sides.
• Do not separate into individual panels. Provide your artwork as one image, we will separate them to best fit the artwork and the material being used.
• Material widths vary depending on the substrate. The printable areas on rigid substrate are typically 47.75”x 95.75”. For wallpaper material it is approximately 50” in width.

Traditional Cast Vinyl and Dimensional Lettering

• Artwork must be in a vector format: (Adobe Illustrator, or equivalent). This is the only format suitable for this process. Convert all fonts to outlines. All shapes must be “closed”, no open paths

Slug Lines

• When providing information in a slug line, please make sure it is up-to-date. Clear and accurate information in this area allows us to process your files correctly, with minimal issues.

White Ink

• White ink is required anytime that you are printing on a colored or clear substrate, unless a translucent look is the desired output. The files provided must be in a vector program like Adobe Illustrator, or InDesign, with the layers intact using layer naming conventions:
  • “White” Layer - Elements will print 100% white. Elements in this layer should have a fill of 100% magenta
  • “Opaque” Layer - Elements will have white behind them, so the background does not show through.
  • “Translucent” Layer - No white will be used, allowing the background to show through.
• Typically, white ink is used to create an opaque layer between the substrate and what is being printed. However, the end result is not always reflective of the intent. A color sample is recommended. 

ADD-ON GRAPHIC SERVICES:
Explus offers add-on custom graphic design services for all your graphic needs.  Please reach out to your Project Manager or the Explus Graphics department for additional information and pricing for the services we offer.

WALL PREPARATION FOR PRINTED WALLPAPER INSTALLATION
To ensure the highest quality finish for printed wallpaper applications, a Level 5 drywall finish is required. This level of preparation ensures a smooth, uniform surface that minimizes the risk of visible seams or substrate imperfections telegraphing through the wallpaper. Below are the essential steps and best practices for achieving a Level 5 finish and preparing walls for wallpaper application:

1. Level 5 Wall Finish – Gypsum Association Guidelines
Joint Treatment

• Tape Application: All joints and interior angles must have tape embedded in joint compound.
• First Coat: Immediately wipe the taped areas with a joint knife to leave a thin, consistent coating.
• Second and Third Coats:
  • Apply two additional coats of joint compound over flat joints.
  • Apply one additional coat over interior angles.
• Fastener Coverage: Fastener heads and accessories should receive three separate coats of joint compound.

Skim Coating

• Purpose: To conceal minor surface inconsistencies and achieve total surface uniformity.
• Application: Apply a thin, consistent skim coat over the entire surface using a drywall broad knife or a spray system.
  • Material should have “trowel consistency” — thick enough for trowel application.
• Execution: Force the compound into pores and imperfections. Shear excess material off the surface to leave it smooth.
• Note: A skim coat is not equivalent to a plaster finish; even after drying, slight visibility of joints and fasteners is normal.

Sanding
Use fine-grit sandpaper or abrasive mesh to smooth the surface. Avoid over-sanding, especially near joints and fasteners. Take care not to scuff or damage the surface of the gypsum panel.

2. Primer Application

• Once the surface is fully dry and smooth:
  • Apply a wallcovering primer, such as Zinsser Shieldz Universal Wallcovering Primer. This ensures proper adhesion of the wallpaper and prevents staining from wall materials.

Best Practices for Success

• Inspect surfaces at all stages for blemishes or inconsistencies.
• Ensure adequate drying time between each coat of compound.
• Perform a final light sanding and clean the surface of all dust before primer application.

By following these detailed steps, you’ll achieve a professional-grade surface suitable for premium printed wallpaper installation, ensuring client satisfaction and long-term durability.