File Preparation Guidelines

Testing Files

If you are new to printing with Trend, it is strongly recommended that you send test files as soon as possible. This will help avoid most problems, and the earlier they are caught, the more likely your job can go to press on schedule. Please contact your Customer Service Representative to schedule a test.

The most common problems are color management, trim size and PDF settings:

Color Management

If you are familiar with color management and are currently incorporating it into your workflow, feel free to use our ICC press profiles. If you have a calibrated monitor and use these profiles in your color workflow, this can give a more accurate display of your work. These files have been zipped, you will need to unzip them before installation.

For coated papers, use the US Web Coated v2 profile.

For uncoated papers, use the US Web Uncoated profile.

Trim Size

Be sure that you have reviewed your publication's trim size with your Customer Service Representative before starting to build any documents. The document size (found in the "Document Setup" or "Layout Properties" menus) must equal the publication's trim size. Any bleeds will extend at least .25" beyond the edge of the document.

PDF Settings

Trend's recommended Distiller settings will consistently give good results. If you have your own Distiller settings that you'd prefer to use, please send in some PDFs for testing to ensure they will work correctly in our workflow.

Layout Software

It's always a good idea to use a program specifically built for page layout, such as InDesign or Quark. Using Illustrator or Photoshop is NOT recommended, as they can cause problems and compromise the high quality of your work.