🎨 Design & File Preparation
1. What is the best file format for high-quality printing?
The best format for high-quality, print-ready files is a PDF (Portable Document Format), saved at Press Quality. We also accept native design files like Adobe Illustrator (.AI), Photoshop (.PSD), or InDesign (.INDD), and high-resolution, flattened image formats like TIFF (.TIF).
The critical requirement is that your file must include 0.125′′ of bleed on all edges (the extra space needed for cutting) and have all text converted to outlines to prevent font conflicts. Sending a PDF ensures that all elements remain exactly as you designed them.
2. Do I need to convert my artwork to CMYK, or will RGB work?
Yes, you should always convert your artwork to CMYK before submitting.
Our commercial printers use the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) color model, which is ink-based. Files designed in RGB (Red, Green, Blue)—the light-based model used by screens—will undergo an automatic conversion during the printing process. This conversion often results in color shifts, making bright colors look duller or causing unexpected tonal changes. Designing in CMYK yourself gives you control over how the final colors will look, ensuring a perfect match between your screen and the final print.
3. What resolution (DPI) should my images be for clear results?
For standard, close-view print products like Business Cards, Flyers, and Brochures, your images must be at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) at the final printed size.
For large-format items like Banners and Step & Repeats, you can sometimes use a lower resolution of 150 DPI. Using a lower resolution than recommended will result in pixilation and blurry, unprofessional prints. If you start with a low-resolution file (like an image saved from a website), enlarging it will only worsen the quality.
4. Can you help me with design, or do I need to supply a print-ready file?
We are happy to help! 612 Printing offers full-service Graphic Design.
You can supply us with a print-ready file if you have one. However, if you only have a logo, a concept, or files that aren't quite print-ready, our in-house design team can assist. We can correct bleeds, convert colors, design from scratch, or simply check your existing artwork to ensure it prints perfectly—saving you time and preventing costly errors.
⚙️ Printing Process & Options
5. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for most products?
The minimum order quantity varies depending on the product and the printing method required.
Digital Printing (Smaller Products): Many of our digitally printed products like Flyers, Business Cards, and Posters have very low MOQs, often starting as low as 25 or 50 pieces.
Offset Printing (Large Runs): Products requiring offset printing or specialty finishes usually have higher MOQs to make the process cost-effective, typically starting around 500 or 1,000 pieces.
We aim to be flexible for the Atlanta market, so please check the specific product page or contact us for your required quantity.
6. How long will it take to complete my printing order?
Our standard production time typically ranges from 3 to 7 business days, depending on the complexity of the product (e.g., standard flyers are faster than perfect-bound catalogs).
Crucially, turnaround time begins only after payment is received AND your file has been approved as print-ready.
For urgent projects in Atlanta, we proudly offer Same-Day and Rush Printing options on many popular items like flyers, business cards, and banners, which are typically ready for pickup that day if files are approved by our mid-day cutoff.
7. What is the difference between digital printing and offset printing?
Digital Printing uses toner or liquid ink (similar to a high-end office printer) and is best for low-volume orders, quick turnarounds, and variable data (like personalized names on cards). It's fast and efficient.
Offset Printing uses custom metal plates and wet ink, transferring the image to paper via rubber blankets. This method offers the highest quality, most accurate color reproduction, and becomes significantly more cost-effective for large-volume orders (usually 1,000+ pieces).
We will select the best method for your project to balance quality, time, and price.
đź’° Cost & Logistics
8. Do you offer local delivery or shipping for my finished order?
Yes, we offer multiple convenient options for receiving your finished order:
Local Pickup: You can pick up your order directly from our Atlanta location. This is the fastest option for Same-Day and Rush orders.
Local Delivery: We offer local delivery within the surrounding Atlanta metro area for an additional fee.
Shipping: We can ship nationwide using standard carriers (UPS, FedEx) for clients outside the immediate area.
9. Are there any hidden fees or setup costs I should know about?
No, transparency is a core value at 612 Printing.
All pricing provided in our final quote is comprehensive. If a project involves a specific setup process (like a die-cut shape) or requires extensive design work from our team, that fee will be clearly itemized and agreed upon before we begin production. You will never see unexpected charges upon pickup or delivery.
10. Can I see a physical proof before you print the entire run?
Yes, for larger or color-critical projects, we strongly recommend and can provide a physical proof (hard proof).