How should I prepare my digital file for best results?

File Format - We request that you supply your image as a .tif file saved for the Windows platform. It is possible for us to print .jpg files, however the .jpg format is a compression format and files that are edited and saved in this format may become degraded.

Image Resolution - We suggest that you prepare and save your digital file at 300 pixels per inch. At this resolution, it is typically possible for us to scale your image as needed and re-purpose it for other products as you request. These high resolution design files often become very large and difficult to manage within the home office environment. If you find this to be the case, keep in mind that many of our customers successfully provide their images at 150 pixels per inch for quality output.

Color Format
- For full color graphic images (e.g. photo prints or paintings), we request that you provide your file in RGB or LAB color format. Keep in mind that If you prepare and provide your file in CMYK format you may be unintentionally 'clipping' the color space of your image. Note that we will convert CMYK files to RGB format prior to printing.

- For conventional textile prints that require color matching of individual hues within the design you must provide your file as a color separated image that is saved in index or LAB color format.

Imagery Layout - We are happy to provide you with dimensions and guidance so that you can prepare your own files and provide them ready to print. However, if you do not have this capability, our team is happy to assist you. We do charge an hourly fee for this service and request that you provide us with the initial image in digital format. Many projects take 15 min to 1 hour of preparation time. Contact Lujuanna Pagan (919-653-3508) to learn more about this process.

How do I provide you with my image?

You can send us your image on CD or DVD. Please enclose a note with your contact information and request. Send your package to the following:

Lujuanna Pagan
InkDrop Printing
A Division of [TC]²
5651 Dillard Drive
Cary, NC 27518

Alternatively, we can also provide you with our ftp information so that you can upload your image to our site.

What kind of quality can I expect to receive?

Print Quality - While we make every effort to control the printing environment and minimize or eliminate print issues, it is possible for inkjet nozzles to become clogged during the printing process. This feature may result in minor banding or striations in the print. As you prepare your digital file, keep in mind that these striations are most notable in large fields of solid color.

Color Penetration or Image Strike Through - The digital print process for textiles does not typically enable complete and even color penetration through the wrong side of the cloth. Keep in mind that the amount of penetration may also vary from roll to roll and batch to batch as a result of minor variance in fiber, yarn, fabric and finishing. While we do our best to minimize the variance, we are not in the position to eliminate it. This issue is typically only a limitation for products like scarves and flags and is generally offset by the tremendous imaging capabilities on the face of the cloth.

Reprints - We do our best to provide color accurate reprints within the limitations of our printing system. While we make every effort to minimize variance in the printing system, you may find slight color difference from batch to batch as a result of fiber, yarn, fabric and finishing.

Color Fastness & Care- our fabrics are prepared to enable permanent color fixation and are printed with textile dyes that are specially formulated for the inkjet process. Following printing, all of our fabrics will be steamed to initiate color fixation and washed to remove excess dye and chemistry. (Visit our Printing page to learn more about the digital print system for textiles.)

The performance of the printed fabric will be similar to fabrics you obtain in the general market place. Some of our products will be provided with care labelling information as required by law. Note that products with specialized construction or trim, may not be washable.

How quickly will my project be completed?
Our goal is to provide our customers with prints on demand. Once you have obtained a color approved sample, we typically ship orders of up to 30 pieces within two weeks. Color proofing and larger orders may take longer. This time frame is somewhat dependent on current workload, although we make every effort to provide quality prints in a timely manner. Also note that we become particularly busy as we approach the December holiday season and suggest you contact us in October if you anticipate the need for December shipments.