Formatting files for screen printing

So you wanna get some prints made from me! Thank you! You are paying for my rent, groceries, and all those other fun living expenses! — Sophia

Every screen printer formats their work differently, but this is how I do it! If you want me to format your work for you, I am happy to for an extra $30 fee.

Digital Mock-Up

If you want to format your work yourself, this page lists out what I need for a successful print! This also allows you the most control over your print.

Please expand your layers to make for a cleaner print!

Referencing “Beware of Beast”. Please note how the yellow layer interacts with the orange layer on the goose crest. And then how the blue layer interacts with the yellow and orange.

Some layers may not need this treatment. For my work, I often expand all my layers except the top dark layer, because my prints are very graphic and have that top layer to tie things together and “hide the seams” so to speak.

Extra expansion in layers means better chance for a cleaner print! More space, more wiggle room for error!

If I think more adjustments are needed, I will contact you! If I want to make SMALL adjustments to the print for a more successful print, I will do so (no extra cost).

FINAL FILE

  • Please make your file the EXACT size you want to print! “Beware of Beast” is a full bleed 8” x 10”, so my file is 8” x 10” in Photoshop.

  • All images should be sized to their final printing size. (UNLESS, you have artwork that extends past the cut line. In that case, please format with a 1/4” bleed with a cut line)

  • The ideal final file formatting is: Photoshop file with each layer mocked up and formatted to the correct size with layer expansion as necessary

  • If you want me to format your file, please send a Photoshop document with clear color intentions! I will have you okay a proof before print!

PAPER

  • Please also let me know what color paper you want printed on! I most commonly use bright whites, off whites, and creams! For reference, “Beware of Beast” as shown below was printed on a Speckletone off-white.

PLEASE keep in mind the final print results WILL LOOK DIFFERENT than the mock up!

I will try my best to color match and replicate according to your mock-up, but there is no possible to EXACTLY replicate it due to the hands on process and numerous variables! IMO that’s what’s fun about printing >:3

Final Print

Please email me if you have any questions!

sophia@crytime.art