Digital & Custom Offset Printing | Frequently Asked Questions

In an ever-evolving world of technology and economic climate, we rise to the challenge of sythesizing your vision, schedule and budget.  Our practice is to establish clear parameters at the outset of every order. This includes materials and print method as well as proofing, cost and timeline. Attention to detail is emphasized in all phases of production and fulfillment to perform at the highest levels of craftsmanship and responsiveness to your needs.

Production and fulfillment are handled by the most skilled craftspeople available on Planet Earth.

Equipment is maintained regularly for reliable performance.

Respect for the environment means we recycle and dispose responsibly.

 

The more we know about your project, the better equipped we are to make it happen.  Help us by giving us information; the more the better.  Be as specific as possible in describing what you want, how much you want to spend and when you need it.  Provide samples whenever possible for type of paper, size, color, color breaks, folding, trimming etc. You’ll see how easy it can be to work with us when we have concrete parameters defining your print order.

 

To make sure we understand each other, production details, payment and delivery details are confirmed at the beginning of every order.

Proofing and sign-offs are the means by which we avoid errors and delineate accountability.

When new options present themselves in production, we avoid guessing what the client would prefer; we consult the client to make new decisions together.

 

Not to worry; you may not have to decide. Often, your job requirements call for a particular method based on timing, quantity, budget, design parameters. While it may not be obvious to you, it will probably be easy for us. All you have to do is give us a call or stop by to show us hat you have in mind and we'll take it from there.

Can you tell the difference between offset and digital printing? Many of our customers have the training to see the difference and they prefer the traditional form of printing. Offset inks absorb into the pores rather than stick strictly to the surface of paper as toner does, creating a rich, saturated look. Registration may be more precise with offset meaning type is more readable and photographs look sharper. There is less of a tendency for streaking in areas of solid color. Offset printing also allows coatings to be applied which may be shiny, satin or dull, while this level of control is not an option in digital printing.

 

How should I prepare a file for printing with you?

The basic and easiest answer to this question is that you supply a PRINT READY .PDF file. We recommended a minimum of 300dpi, converted to CMYK colorspace, all fonts outlined AND embedded. Specify your trim area with crop marks (Don't place crop marks inside the work area). Make sure you have a minimum of 1/8" (0.125") BLEED on all edges of your job, and a 1/8" (0.125") SAFE area that has all critical design element such as text, pulled away from trim.

Following these guidelines, and CAREFULLY CHECKING THE RESULTING PDF before uploading will greatly reduce the possibility of error and accelerate your job through production.

PDF print ready files:

• Minimum resolution of 300 dpi
• CMYK colorspace
• All fonts outlined and embedded
• Specify trim area with crop marks (Don't place crop marks inside the work area)
• Artwork should have 1/8" (0.125") bleed from trim line
• Information content ("Safe Area") should be 1/8" (0.125") away from trim line.

For first time transfers, call us at 415-381-3227 or (800) 747-3287 for ftp address, user name and password - then see the information below. For all other questions regarding file prep and submission, click here to connect to our online store "HELP CENTER", which is loaded with answers on these topics. Or call us, we are happy to assist you!

 

May I email my files?

Yes, first compress your files using Stuffit or WinZip to create a .sit or .zip file. It is best to combine multiple files into one compressed archive file. Then attach the file to your email. Include the estimate or job number in the email subject line and send it to wigt at wigt dot com. Note: for files larger than 5M it is best to send the files via ftp.

May I submit my files via FTP?

Yes, ftp.wigt.com is open 24/7 to receive your files.  Please call us at 415-381-3227 or email wigt at wigt dot com to get log-in data for the first time.  Please reference your job number or estimate number in every communication.

For best results, compress your files first, using STUFFIT or a similar program. (Go to stuffit.com for more info on file compression).

 

Yes - we have many recycled paper options and run most of our jobs on recycled papers.

 

Yes, we do.  Soy inks are standard.

 

What is a Press Check?

The Press Check is an appointment on site for review of actual printing in process.

Why Press Check?

Press checking gives you the opportunity to know what your printed order looks like – before the entire order is printed.  It's an opportunity to ground your design idea in reality - before all the paper you've paid for is printed.  Press and sales personnel are present to facilitate any discussion regarding options that may be made for the run. 

Press Checking helps eliminate surprises. And the best part is: a press check at WIGT is FREE OF CHARGE when these simple guidelines are followed:

How does a Press Check work?

Press Check appointments are available after final art sign-offs have been received by WIGT.

An appointment for a press check must be made in advance.

Be on time, since the press and related personnel will be booked specifically with your item to be checked.

Be prepared to make decisions while you’re press checking.

The press will be set up with plates, ink and paper according to the confirmed job specifications for a specific item.

You will be presented with an actual press sheet.

If you approve, your signature on that sheet indicates what we will match to for the rest of the run, and on future orders for the same item or suite of items.

Ink color may be adjusted slightly for greater or lesser saturation within the framework of 15 minutes at no charge.

What incurs additional costs?

Being late to a press check…

Downtime will be charged for if a client is more than 10 minutes late or cancels with less than 24 hours prior notice.

Press rate is $100/hour after the first 10 minutes of waiting for a client to arrive.

Pulling the job out of production…

In some cases, a client may decide that the ink color, graphic art or paper chosen for an item simply is not working.
Then the job is pulled off the press. New decisions must be made and a new scope of work agreement with
associated additional costs must also be created.

Ink colors or papers chosen to replace original job specifications will be charged for in addition to the original materials ordered for the job.

 

How do I pay for my first order?

Unless other arrangements have been made, a deposit of 50% is due to initiate production on the first WIGT order for digital or custom offset printing,with the balance due upon completion of that order. Credit applications will be processed after completion of the first order.

WIGT accepts payment by cash, check or credit card for on-site orders whereas WIGTONLINE.com accepts all payment in advance by credit card.

How may I apply for credit to open an account?

Download our Credit Application form here and fax it back to us.

How do I use my Credit Card?

Download our Credit Card authorization form here and fax it back to us.