Frequently Asked Questions

NEED HELP BRINGING YOUR IDEA TO LIFE?

Whether you need help preparing artwork, creating a product, or choosing the right printing service, we’re here to guide you. Tell us what you’re making, and we’ll help determine the best way to produce it.

DESIGN & ARTWORK SUPPORT

Artwork cleanup, logo recreation, vector files, and new designs made print-ready.

PRODUCT CREATION SUPPORT

Help choosing the right product, material, size, finish, and production method.

CUSTOM PRINTING & SERVICES

Guidance for custom projects, specialty printing, finishing, installation, and more.

ARTWORK & FILE PREPARATION
What is DPI, and how does it affect print quality?

DPI describes the amount of image detail available for printing. For most products, we recommend artwork at approximately 300 DPI at the final printed size. Lower-resolution images may appear blurry or pixelated when enlarged. Large-format work may require less resolution because it is normally viewed from farther away.

What resolution should my artwork be?

For most products, artwork should be approximately 300 DPI at its final printed size. Enlarging a small image does not add detail and may make it appear blurry. If you are unsure, send us the original file and we can assess it before production.

What is the difference between CMYK and RGB?

RGB is the colour system used by phones, monitors and other illuminated screens. CMYK is the colour system commonly used for printing. Screens can display some colours that printing inks cannot reproduce, so RGB artwork may shift slightly when converted for production.

Why does my finished print look different from my screen?

Screens produce colour using light, while printed products reflect light from ink or toner. Screen brightness, display settings, material colour, finish and the printing process can all affect the final appearance. For colour-sensitive projects, contact us before ordering to discuss proofing or colour-matching options.

What is the difference between vector and raster artwork?

Raster images, such as JPEG and PNG files, are made from pixels and can lose quality when enlarged. Vector artwork, such as SVG, EPS and some PDF or AI files, uses editable shapes that can be resized without becoming blurry. Vector files are generally best for logos, decals, signage and apparel graphics.

Which file formats do you accept?

We commonly work with PDF, SVG, EPS, AI, PNG and high-resolution JPEG files. Whenever possible, send the original artwork rather than a screenshot or an image downloaded from social media. We’ll let you know if a different format is required.

What are bleed, trim and safe areas?

The trim line is where the finished product will be cut. Bleed extends artwork beyond that line so unwanted white edges do not appear after trimming. The safe area keeps important text and graphics away from the cut edge. Requirements vary by product, and we can provide the correct specifications.

Does my artwork need a transparent background?

It depends on the product. Transparent backgrounds are normally recommended for contour-cut stickers, decals, apparel graphics and logos that should not print with a surrounding box. PNG and vector files can support transparency; JPEG files cannot.

Can you improve a blurry or pixelated image?

Sometimes. We may be able to clean up the image, improve its resolution, recreate the design or convert it into a vector file. Severely compressed or extremely small images may need to be rebuilt. We’ll recommend the most practical option after reviewing the original file.

Can you recreate or vectorize my logo?

Yes. We can redraw many low-resolution logos as clean vector artwork suitable for printing, signage, apparel and future marketing materials. Pricing depends on the complexity and condition of the supplied image.

Why shouldn’t I use a screenshot as artwork?

Screenshots are usually low resolution, may include unwanted backgrounds and often lack accurate colour information. Whenever possible, upload the original design or exported file. If a screenshot is all you have, we can review it and determine whether it can be recreated.

Do fonts need to be included with my artwork?

Editable files may require the original font files. A safer option is to convert the text to outlines before sending the artwork. This preserves its appearance and prevents missing-font substitutions.

Do you offer scanning or photocopying?

Prairie Printing works primarily from digital files and does not currently provide general scanning or photocopying services. The Edmonton Public Library offers scanning for documents up to 13″ × 19″ and can provide digital files or printed copies.

DESIGN & PRODUCT CREATION
Do you offer graphic design services?

Yes. We can help with logos, branding, print layouts, signage, apparel graphics, packaging and other marketing materials. Design work is quoted according to the project’s complexity and the files supplied.

Can you create a design if I only have an idea?

Absolutely. Send us your concept, preferred wording, dimensions, colours and any examples that demonstrate the style you like. We can help turn that direction into finished, print-ready artwork.

How much does design work cost?

Design costs depend on the complexity of the project, the quality of the supplied materials and the amount of revision required. We’ll review your request and provide pricing before beginning substantial design work.

Are design revisions included?

The number of revisions depends on the project and quote. Your estimate will explain what is included. Additional revisions or major changes in direction may require an additional design fee.

Can you help me choose the right product or material?

Yes. Tell us how the product will be used, where it will be installed, how long it should last and what conditions it will encounter. We can recommend an appropriate material, size, finish and production method.

Can you make something that isn’t listed online?

Possibly. Our website highlights our most common products, but we also complete custom projects. Contact us with the size, quantity, artwork, intended use and desired timeline so we can explore the available options.

Can I order a custom size or shape?

Many products can be produced in custom sizes and shapes. Available options depend on the material, equipment and finishing requirements. Send us the specifications for a custom quote.

Is there a minimum order quantity?

Minimum quantities vary by product and production method. Some products are practical as single items, while others become more economical at larger quantities. Product pages or your custom quote will identify any applicable minimum.

COLOUR & PRINT EXPECTATIONS
Can you match an exact brand or Pantone colour?

We can work toward supplied brand colours, but exact matching may require additional testing or a specialized production process. Provide Pantone, CMYK or other documented colour values before production, and mention colour matching when requesting your quote.

Why can colours vary between materials?

Ink and toner interact differently with vinyl, paper, fabric and other surfaces. Material colour, texture, coating, opacity and finish can all affect the result. A colour printed on glossy vinyl may not look identical on fabric or uncoated paper.

Will a reordered product look exactly the same?

We make every reasonable effort to maintain consistency, but small variations can occur between materials, ink batches, equipment and production runs. If colour consistency is especially important, let us know before reordering and provide the original order information.

Will my print be as bright as it looks on screen?

Not always. Screens produce colour using light and can display very bright RGB colours. Printed products reflect light and usually have a smaller colour range. Neon, intensely saturated and backlit screen colours may print less vividly.

Are printed and cut sizes always exact?

Printing and finishing involve small production tolerances. Minor variations in trimming, placement, colour and finished dimensions are normal. Avoid placing critical text or borders too close to cut lines.

ORDERS & PRODUCTION
What is your standard turnaround time?

Our typical production time is approximately 5–10 business days. This begins after required artwork, information, payment and proof approval have been received. Larger or more complex projects may require additional time.

Do you offer rush production?

Priority production may be available for an additional fee, depending on the product and current workload. Contact us before ordering if you have a firm deadline. Rush service is not confirmed until we approve the timeline.

When does production time begin?

Production time begins once the order requirements are complete, including artwork, specifications, payment and proof approval where applicable. Time spent waiting for customer information or approval is not included in the production estimate.

Can I change my order after approving the proof?

Contact us immediately. Once production has started, changes may not be possible and could require restarting the order at an additional cost. Carefully review your proof before approving it.

How will I know when my order is ready?

You will receive confirmation after your order is placed and another notification when it is ready for pickup or its next delivery stage. Please wait for the ready notification before arranging pickup.

Do you offer pickup, delivery or shipping?

Pickup is available by appointment from our southwest Edmonton location. Delivery or shipping availability and pricing depend on the order and destination. Contact us before ordering if you require a specific delivery arrangement.

PROOFING, QUALITY & FILE RIGHTS
What is Prairie Printing’s quality guarantee?

We take pride in our work and want you to be completely satisfied. Please carefully review your final proof before approval. If the finished product does not match the approved proof or we fail to follow your written instructions, we are happy to review the issue and, when appropriate, reprint the affected product.

What should I check on my proof?

Review spelling, phone numbers, dates, dimensions, quantities, colours, image placement, cut lines and all other design details. Proofs should be viewed at an appropriate scale, and important information should be checked carefully before approval.

What happens if my order does not match the proof?

Contact us with photographs and your order information. If the finished product does not match the approved proof or we failed to follow your written instructions, we will review the issue and, when appropriate, correct or reprint the affected product.

Who is responsible for spelling and artwork errors?

Customers are responsible for reviewing and approving their final artwork. Prairie Printing may identify obvious concerns, but approval confirms that the spelling, content, layout and supplied information are acceptable for production.

Can custom products be returned or exchanged?

Because customized products are made specifically for each customer, they generally cannot be returned due to a change of mind or an error in approved artwork. Production defects or items that do not match the approved proof will be reviewed under our quality guarantee.

Can I print copyrighted artwork or branded characters?

Only upload artwork that you own or have permission to reproduce. This includes logos, photographs, illustrations, characters and other copyrighted material. By submitting a file, you confirm that you have the necessary reproduction rights.

How does Prairie Printing use my uploaded files and finished products?

Uploaded files are used to review, design and produce your order, and may be retained to assist with reorders and customer service. Prairie Printing will not sell your artwork or reproduce it as a standalone product without your permission.

Unless you request otherwise, Prairie Printing may photograph completed printed products and use those photographs in our portfolio, website, social media, promotional materials or advertising. We are not required to identify or credit the customer, artist or designer when publishing these photographs. Publication does not transfer ownership of the original artwork.

If your order contains confidential material or you would prefer that it remain private, please write “KEEP PRIVATE — DO NOT PHOTOGRAPH OR PUBLISH” in the order notes during checkout.

LOCATION & CUSTOMER SUPPORT
Where is Prairie Printing located?

Prairie Printing is an appointment-based business located at 11804 22 Avenue SW in Edmonton, Alberta. Please arrange your visit or wait for pickup instructions before arriving.

What are your hours?

We operate by appointment rather than maintaining set storefront hours. Please call or message us to arrange service or pickup.

Do I need an appointment?

Yes. Because we operate by appointment, please call or message us before visiting. Customers collecting orders should wait until they receive confirmation that the order is ready.

How can I request a quote?

Send us the product or service you need, finished size, quantity, artwork, preferred material or finish and required date. If you aren’t sure about those details, describe how the finished product will be used and we’ll help identify the appropriate options.

How can I get help with an existing order?

Contact us with your name, order number and a description of what you need. Photos are helpful for questions involving colour, damage, finishing or product quality.