Production Best Practices

PDF Export Settings

To export print-ready pdfs, download the Print Preset linked below and follow the instructions on how to load this into InDesign.

Download the Print Preset Here and follow the instructions below:

Choose File > Adobe PDF Presets > Define.
In the Adobe PDF Presets dialog box, click the Load button.
Select “HHG_FTP_Print.job” options file, then click OK. The file name appears in the Presets list.
When exporting a PDF, select "HHG_FTP_Print"

Art File Set up

Set up the artfile to the trim size. If the artfile is a 20 in x 28 in wall graphic, create the file at 20 in x 28 in and add ½ inch of bleed as shown in the example above.

When working in InDesign, files will export to CMYK. Check that all files are built in CMYK when using a different program other than InDesign.

Have everything outlined. Avoid releasing lines as strokes to ensure artwork is scalable without distortion. This applies to all Illustrator files or files that require any adjustments. All fonts must be outlined for these specific print placements.
Ex. Status tote bags, Flagship Window Items, Clings

Crop Mark Settings

Crop marks should not be created in Illustrator or any design program manually. Make sure crop marks are included in your PDF export settings. If the Preset has been downloaded, the crop marks will be included in your PDF export.

Rich Black CMYK Build

When creating any graphic with a solid black, use the CMYK Build:
C:75,  M:68,  Y:67,  K:100

File Naming

File names must follow these guidelines depending on the project that is assigned.

For Finishline Files: FNL_STORE_Date_Campaign/Brand_Placement_Specs_F#

For JD Sports Files: JD_STORE_Date_Campaign/Brand_Placement_Specs_F#

Note:
Use Basecamp ticket due date for file naming convention date.

File names must NEVER include commas, apostrophes, or periods in file name itself. This will corrupt the file.

When typing out a file spec that has a decimal, replace the period with a “p”.
For example, if your file was 20.25 in by 18.0635 in then the file should be named as so,
“JD_STORE_022424_Birkenstock_WallGraphic_20p25x18p0635_F023455”

F# Settings

F#’s need to be placed ½  inch from the bottom right hand corner in the art file. The F# should be black or white text (whichever is most visible), Gotham Medium font, sized at 10 pts.  The F# should match the F# assigned by HHG to the matched placement.
EX. Wall Graphic 20x28 - F0109876, Apparel Cage 600 x 2950 - F0109922. 

The F# should be included in the PDF file name.
EX. JD_STORE_102324_Adidas_WallGraphic_20x28_F0109876

Linked Files

Do not link logos that are being used in print placements. Copy and paste the logo from the AI or EPS file into the artwork to prevent linking the logo.

Do not provide PNGs for any print files! Create an EPS file or AI. 

Note: Embed links or package files if artwork needs manipulation by HHG

Cling Prints

Create clings in Illustrator.
To save PDFs with layers, set Compatibility to Acrobat 6 or later. Check “Create Acrobat Layers from Top-Level Layers”
The following layers must be included:

  1. Print Layer

  2. For double-sided clings, opaque white under-print (vector spot white layer indicating where opaque white should print)

  3. Clear Media: magenta flood used to represent clear area. This layer will not be printed.

  4. Dieline or Crop Marks (crops can be generated automatically when saving the final PDF.)

Notes:
The Opaque White layer needs to be vector with no effects (warping, distorting, etc).
If a cling has only white print, then the Print Layer can be omitted as the Opaque White layer will include all printed elements.

HHG Contact Names

Finish Line Macys: Ashley Morgan 
Finish Line Projects: Laura Hayes
JD Projects: Kelly McCowen
Flagship Stores: Shawn Crawford