Terms, conditions & important info
UNLESS OTHERWISE COMMUNICATED DIRECTLY TO THE CLIENT IN WRITING REGARDING A SPECIFIC ORDER OR INVOICE NUMBER, ALL ORDERS ARE FINAL WITH NO REFUNDS OR RETURNS.
All files uploaded for orders on this and any/all website(s) owned and/or operated by Demand Printgraphics LLC and/or its owners/affiliates, will be printed exactly as uploaded on printers running a CMYK or a CMYKLcLm format.
Please note that we have a $100 order minimum. Use of this and any/all website(s) owned and/or operated by Demand Printgraphics LLC and/or its owners/affiliates constitutes acceptance of Demand Printgraphics' Terms & Conditions.
Unless specified otherwise, all orders are FOB our facilities.
Unless specified otherwise, color and/or font matches are neither attempted nor guaranteed.
Artwork & Copy Creation & Approval: Please proofread everything.
Non-Online Orders & Online Orders with Design Requests:
We need your signature and dated approval on all art and copy before we can begin production. Demand Printgraphics saves art files for one year after date of production. If Demand Printgraphics is creating or modifying the artwork, design and production art charges may apply.
Online Orders with Uploaded Art:
Your act of uploading files art and affirms that the file is sized correctly and is prepared to Demand Printgraphics guidelines, and you approve the uploaded file preview and/or download link that appears next to the Upload button as your proof. Demand Printgraphics will print the file as uploaded and as our systems/printers interpret and render the file. On the order and checkout screens we prompt/request that you type ACCEPT to affirm and accept these policies, however your use of Demand Printgraphics' websites and/or submission of a file establishes your full acceptance and affirmation all of Demand Printgraphics policies, regardless of your response to affirmation/acceptance prompts or requests.
Changes, Cancellations & Returns: If you must change or cancel an order, please let us know in writing as soon as possible. Sorry, but we will have to bill you for all non-standard materials on order; materials in process; completed goods and for professional services expended and any additional expenses accumulated. As all products are custom-made, once shipped, products are not returnable, no returns will be accepted without a prior Authorization from the owners of Demand Printgraphics.
Confidentiality: As we work together, we will be sharing information about each other’s strategies, pricing, designs, trade secrets and other corporate information. We both agree that this information is proprietary, and will keep all information confidential at all times, with no exceptions.
Deposits: In some cases such as overseas shipments/payments, sensitive credit situations or high upfront costs, a deposit or payment in full may be required before we can start work.
Disputes: We are all reasonable people; let’s agree to resolve all disputes in a respectful and professional fashion. If an amicable resolution cannot be reached, we will submit to arbitration in the State of North Carolina, and settle in accordance with the laws of North Carolina. The prevailing party in any legal dispute is entitled to reasonable reimbursement of costs and attorney fees.
Freight/Shipping: Unless otherwise noted, freight charges are not included in this quote, and will be billed at tariff rates, unless COD or 3rd party billing is requested. All freight is FOB our plant.
Freight/Shipping Damage & Delays: Please inspect all shipments immediately, and notify Demand Printgraphics of any apparent or concealed damage within 10 days. Shipping damage is the responsibility of the freight carrier, not Demand Printgraphics. Our Customer Service staff will be glad to file a claim on your behalf, or assist you in the process. Please make sure you save all cartoning and inner wrap. Sorry, but without prompt notification and the original packaging, the freight carrier will not honor a claim for damages, and will not cover the cost of your replacement sign! Whenever possible, please provide pictures (digital or standard) to present to the freight company.
Handling: Unless otherwise noted, and without exception, a minimum $5 per location handling fee will apply.
Intellectual Property: All Intellectual Property (IP) laws of the United States will apply. The ownership of all IP created for this project remains with Demand Printgraphics, regardless of the format of those materials (electronic, paper, dimensional, etc.) This information may not be disclosed or distributed in any manner without our permission. When Demand Printgraphics works with your IP, we will behave in the same manner. Please make sure you have the legal right to supply us with the artwork, logos or copy required for a program. You must agree to indemnify and hold us harmless for any and all use of materials you provide.
Minimum Order Size: A minimum order of $100 is required. For orders less than $250, a $50 service charge will be added to all orders unless paid in advance via check, cash or credit card.
Packaging: Packaging is not included in your pricing.
Payment Terms: Our standard credit terms, when issued, are net 30; 2% per month charge for payments later than 45 days. Please contact us if you need other terms; we’ll see what we can do. Demand Printgraphics reserves the right to change terms at any time due to non-payment/slow payment. For orders less than $250, a $50 service charge will be added to all orders unless paid in advance via check, cash or credit card. Credit card limit is $2,000, unless otherwise approved/and/or specified.
Permitting: You are responsible for all state and local permits, variances and licenses that may be required for this program.
Promotional Usage: Once the products we produce are out in the public marketplace, all parties can use the program, or elements of the program, for promotional purposes. We will never imply endorsement without prior permission.
Production Variations: Materials are carefully chosen and monitored. However, all materials are subject to Mill/Mix variations, markings, foam bubbles, etc. Across large projects and reorders, piece parts variations in natural materials are unavoidable. If we are making illuminated product for you, please be aware that light sources vary in color hue and intensity between production runs. Illuminated signs are designed to provide for approximate color matches when the sign is illuminated; colors may not match when the sign is turned off.
Prototypes: We make our prototypes to be close approximations of the final product. However, there will be differences in the final production due to the different production processes used in quantity runs. We will let you know of any changes that affect the form, fit or function of your product.
Representation: If you use any of the websites, apps, or ordering platforms of Demand Printgraphics, LLC, you are confirming agreement with these Terms of Service and this agreement we assume you have full legal authority to enter into a binding agreement for your company.
Schedules, Schedule Changes and Delays: We work hard to keep your costs low. We schedule production to assure the lowest costs and staffing and material availability. Demand Printgraphics will do its best to accommodate any request from you for a change in shipping, installation and service dates. We will however need reimbursement for expenses and wages if we cannot accommodate a schedule change and the resulting expenses. We have your permission to begin work when we receive your deposit monies, electronic authorization, signed agreement or purchase order.
Sign Installation and Warranty: We are sorry, but Demand Printgraphics cannot be responsible for signs that do not adhere to walls and other mounting surfaces unless the installation is performed by us or through us. There are too many variables that we do not control, like dust/dirt levels, irregular mounting surfaces and finishes, uncured wall treatments, humidity levels, improper mounting methods, etc. For these reasons, signage that falls from any surface, & any damages to that sign or incidental damages are not covered under the Demand Printgraphics warranty. We do promise you that the sign is free of manufacturing and design defects, and all mounting devices that we install (cleats, eyebolts, etc) are properly mounted. Bottom line: fallen signs are not covered by our warranty unless we install it, or it is the result of a manufacturing defect.
Taxes: We need to charge sales tax on all shipments. Please supply your resale certificate, if applicable, with your order. Sorry, but we cannot refund taxes or credit for taxes once we print your invoice. There may be other applicable taxes and tariffs; we will try to advise in advance whenever possible.
Terminal Billing: The Terminal Billing date for all unshipped material is 30 days from the completion of production. After that time Demand Printgraphics will bill for any unshipped goods and warehousing charges will begin at the prevailing rate.
Warehousing: Unless otherwise stated on quotation, we include 10 days free warehousing on our quote. After that, storage will be billed monthly at the rate of $3.00 per cubic foot per month, plus an appropriate in/out charge.
Warranty: Our product is suitable for the intended use as described to us. All signs are warranted for 6 (six) months after date of production. Liability is limited to the replacement or refund of the purchase price only; no incidental coverage is stated or implied. Any product tampering or abuse, or mis-application of product will void any warranty.
Miscellaneous:
- Prices do not include freight, shipping, packing, handling, licensing fees, out of pocket expenses, kitting fees, or taxes unless noted.
- Prices are valid for 15 days from date of quote.
- Unless otherwise specified, and regardless of payment terms, title of goods transfers from Demand Printgraphics to you upon production of goods.
- Ship Dates: Ship dates are our best estimate at the time of quotation. The ship date given assumes we have all necessary information and approvals (artwork, colors, credit, etc.) at the time of order. If not, the ship date may be delayed.
- Demand Printgraphics cannot be responsible for delays or non-delivery due to acts of war, terror or nature; acts by any government or quasi-government body or agency; fire, insurrection, riot, embargo, strike (legal or illegal), material shortage, transit interruption or delay of any kind, or any condition beyond our control which may affect delivery or production schedules.
- As the user/purchaser you must assume all responsibility for product use, installation, environmental conditions, and compliance with all applicable laws and ordinances.
- A $35 service charge will be assessed on any cancelled payment or returned check.
All files uploaded for orders on this and any/all website(s) owned and/or operated by Demand Printgraphics LLC and/or its owners/affiliates, will be printed exactly as uploaded on printers running a CMYK or a CMYKLcLm format.
Please note that we have a $100 order minimum. Use of this and any/all website(s) owned and/or operated by Demand Printgraphics LLC and/or its owners/affiliates constitutes acceptance of Demand Printgraphics' Terms & Conditions.
Unless specified otherwise, all orders are FOB our facilities.
Unless specified otherwise, color and/or font matches are neither attempted nor guaranteed.
Artwork & Copy Creation & Approval: Please proofread everything.
Non-Online Orders & Online Orders with Design Requests:
We need your signature and dated approval on all art and copy before we can begin production. Demand Printgraphics saves art files for one year after date of production. If Demand Printgraphics is creating or modifying the artwork, design and production art charges may apply.
Online Orders with Uploaded Art:
Your act of uploading files art and affirms that the file is sized correctly and is prepared to Demand Printgraphics guidelines, and you approve the uploaded file preview and/or download link that appears next to the Upload button as your proof. Demand Printgraphics will print the file as uploaded and as our systems/printers interpret and render the file. On the order and checkout screens we prompt/request that you type ACCEPT to affirm and accept these policies, however your use of Demand Printgraphics' websites and/or submission of a file establishes your full acceptance and affirmation all of Demand Printgraphics policies, regardless of your response to affirmation/acceptance prompts or requests.
Changes, Cancellations & Returns: If you must change or cancel an order, please let us know in writing as soon as possible. Sorry, but we will have to bill you for all non-standard materials on order; materials in process; completed goods and for professional services expended and any additional expenses accumulated. As all products are custom-made, once shipped, products are not returnable, no returns will be accepted without a prior Authorization from the owners of Demand Printgraphics.
Confidentiality: As we work together, we will be sharing information about each other’s strategies, pricing, designs, trade secrets and other corporate information. We both agree that this information is proprietary, and will keep all information confidential at all times, with no exceptions.
Deposits: In some cases such as overseas shipments/payments, sensitive credit situations or high upfront costs, a deposit or payment in full may be required before we can start work.
Disputes: We are all reasonable people; let’s agree to resolve all disputes in a respectful and professional fashion. If an amicable resolution cannot be reached, we will submit to arbitration in the State of North Carolina, and settle in accordance with the laws of North Carolina. The prevailing party in any legal dispute is entitled to reasonable reimbursement of costs and attorney fees.
Freight/Shipping: Unless otherwise noted, freight charges are not included in this quote, and will be billed at tariff rates, unless COD or 3rd party billing is requested. All freight is FOB our plant.
Freight/Shipping Damage & Delays: Please inspect all shipments immediately, and notify Demand Printgraphics of any apparent or concealed damage within 10 days. Shipping damage is the responsibility of the freight carrier, not Demand Printgraphics. Our Customer Service staff will be glad to file a claim on your behalf, or assist you in the process. Please make sure you save all cartoning and inner wrap. Sorry, but without prompt notification and the original packaging, the freight carrier will not honor a claim for damages, and will not cover the cost of your replacement sign! Whenever possible, please provide pictures (digital or standard) to present to the freight company.
Handling: Unless otherwise noted, and without exception, a minimum $5 per location handling fee will apply.
Intellectual Property: All Intellectual Property (IP) laws of the United States will apply. The ownership of all IP created for this project remains with Demand Printgraphics, regardless of the format of those materials (electronic, paper, dimensional, etc.) This information may not be disclosed or distributed in any manner without our permission. When Demand Printgraphics works with your IP, we will behave in the same manner. Please make sure you have the legal right to supply us with the artwork, logos or copy required for a program. You must agree to indemnify and hold us harmless for any and all use of materials you provide.
Minimum Order Size: A minimum order of $100 is required. For orders less than $250, a $50 service charge will be added to all orders unless paid in advance via check, cash or credit card.
Packaging: Packaging is not included in your pricing.
Payment Terms: Our standard credit terms, when issued, are net 30; 2% per month charge for payments later than 45 days. Please contact us if you need other terms; we’ll see what we can do. Demand Printgraphics reserves the right to change terms at any time due to non-payment/slow payment. For orders less than $250, a $50 service charge will be added to all orders unless paid in advance via check, cash or credit card. Credit card limit is $2,000, unless otherwise approved/and/or specified.
Permitting: You are responsible for all state and local permits, variances and licenses that may be required for this program.
Promotional Usage: Once the products we produce are out in the public marketplace, all parties can use the program, or elements of the program, for promotional purposes. We will never imply endorsement without prior permission.
Production Variations: Materials are carefully chosen and monitored. However, all materials are subject to Mill/Mix variations, markings, foam bubbles, etc. Across large projects and reorders, piece parts variations in natural materials are unavoidable. If we are making illuminated product for you, please be aware that light sources vary in color hue and intensity between production runs. Illuminated signs are designed to provide for approximate color matches when the sign is illuminated; colors may not match when the sign is turned off.
Prototypes: We make our prototypes to be close approximations of the final product. However, there will be differences in the final production due to the different production processes used in quantity runs. We will let you know of any changes that affect the form, fit or function of your product.
Representation: If you use any of the websites, apps, or ordering platforms of Demand Printgraphics, LLC, you are confirming agreement with these Terms of Service and this agreement we assume you have full legal authority to enter into a binding agreement for your company.
Schedules, Schedule Changes and Delays: We work hard to keep your costs low. We schedule production to assure the lowest costs and staffing and material availability. Demand Printgraphics will do its best to accommodate any request from you for a change in shipping, installation and service dates. We will however need reimbursement for expenses and wages if we cannot accommodate a schedule change and the resulting expenses. We have your permission to begin work when we receive your deposit monies, electronic authorization, signed agreement or purchase order.
Sign Installation and Warranty: We are sorry, but Demand Printgraphics cannot be responsible for signs that do not adhere to walls and other mounting surfaces unless the installation is performed by us or through us. There are too many variables that we do not control, like dust/dirt levels, irregular mounting surfaces and finishes, uncured wall treatments, humidity levels, improper mounting methods, etc. For these reasons, signage that falls from any surface, & any damages to that sign or incidental damages are not covered under the Demand Printgraphics warranty. We do promise you that the sign is free of manufacturing and design defects, and all mounting devices that we install (cleats, eyebolts, etc) are properly mounted. Bottom line: fallen signs are not covered by our warranty unless we install it, or it is the result of a manufacturing defect.
Taxes: We need to charge sales tax on all shipments. Please supply your resale certificate, if applicable, with your order. Sorry, but we cannot refund taxes or credit for taxes once we print your invoice. There may be other applicable taxes and tariffs; we will try to advise in advance whenever possible.
Terminal Billing: The Terminal Billing date for all unshipped material is 30 days from the completion of production. After that time Demand Printgraphics will bill for any unshipped goods and warehousing charges will begin at the prevailing rate.
Warehousing: Unless otherwise stated on quotation, we include 10 days free warehousing on our quote. After that, storage will be billed monthly at the rate of $3.00 per cubic foot per month, plus an appropriate in/out charge.
Warranty: Our product is suitable for the intended use as described to us. All signs are warranted for 6 (six) months after date of production. Liability is limited to the replacement or refund of the purchase price only; no incidental coverage is stated or implied. Any product tampering or abuse, or mis-application of product will void any warranty.
Miscellaneous:
- Prices do not include freight, shipping, packing, handling, licensing fees, out of pocket expenses, kitting fees, or taxes unless noted.
- Prices are valid for 15 days from date of quote.
- Unless otherwise specified, and regardless of payment terms, title of goods transfers from Demand Printgraphics to you upon production of goods.
- Ship Dates: Ship dates are our best estimate at the time of quotation. The ship date given assumes we have all necessary information and approvals (artwork, colors, credit, etc.) at the time of order. If not, the ship date may be delayed.
- Demand Printgraphics cannot be responsible for delays or non-delivery due to acts of war, terror or nature; acts by any government or quasi-government body or agency; fire, insurrection, riot, embargo, strike (legal or illegal), material shortage, transit interruption or delay of any kind, or any condition beyond our control which may affect delivery or production schedules.
- As the user/purchaser you must assume all responsibility for product use, installation, environmental conditions, and compliance with all applicable laws and ordinances.
- A $35 service charge will be assessed on any cancelled payment or returned check.
please note:
- We recommend our standard step stakes for our 4 mil coroplast only. The 10 mil coroplast is a very thick material. We do not recommend using our step stakes for signs larger than 24x24. However, if you order a 36x36 size sign you can use 2 stakes on that.
- 10 mil coroplast will add an additional 24-48 hours to your production time.
- Pricing variations will round to the next linear and/or square foot.
- Grommets will be placed in all four corners and every 2-3' on the top and bottom only. We do not grommet the sides of banners.
- The double sided pole pockets will be white. The single sided will have color.
- The size of the pole pocket ordered indicates that it will fit that size pole. For example, 1" will fit a 1" pole pocket, but will be about 4" in size.
- We cannot grommet anything under 1'x1'.
- Pole pocket banners are taped. We use the 3M VHB Tape. They are not sewn or welded. Please review the sizes to order for pole pockets by clicking on the "i" icon under the pole pocket area.
- Please allow for an additional 24-48 hours for contour cutting.
- We are unable to guarantee the flute direction on coroplast orders placed with custom cut.
- You can only have one order in your cart at any given time on our website, but that order can have as many different products and quantities as you like. After completing checkout on a single order, you may immediately place another order.
- We currently accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.
- Orders typically ship within 3-5 business days but are not GUARANTEED unless expedited shipping is requested at time of ordering. Double Sided Banners,18oz banners, White Ink on Clear Substrates and Contour Cutting require additional production time regardless of shipping time requested.
- Shipping rates default to UPS ground, and are calculated based on the weight of your order and your shipping address.
- For Drop Shipping, choose Blind Drop Ship on each item and then at checkout, enter your customers shipping address on the shipping page. All items on the order will ship to the address entered at checkout. Due to international trade restrictions, we can only Blind Drop Ship to customers in the United States.
- UPS will not accept any tubes or boxes over 8' in length. Anything above will be folded for shipping.
- You cannot upload a file with the same file name as one that already exists in your order or your order history. Please rename your file before uploading it. All images need to have unique file names. We also recommend including the date of your upload in the file name, for example: myprintfile03-23-2018.jpg
- For magnets and yard signs we are limited by the size of the magnetic material and the coroplast sheet. For adhesives and banners we can piece them together to make any size you need, no file is too large to print.
- We produce everything in full color it is typically unnecessary to carry different colored materials or substrates. Everything, generally, is printed on a white material. It is required by our clients that they submit your files as they will need to appear when printed. WE DO NOT CHANGE THE COLORS OF UPLOADED FILES.
- Flutes on Coroplast will print vertically.
- We are unable to take paged pdf files. We print "print ready" files only. If you have multiple files on one sheet, they need to be uploaded as individual files.
- We can print our banners up to 5' high and 25' long without a seam. We can permanently seam 5ft sections together to create almost any size banner. Anything over 8' tall will be folded for shipping.
- Color matching is provided at a per job fee of $50. We will come as close as we possibly can to the color requested, however, this is not a guarantee. We only match Pantone Solid Coated or Uncoated colors, Matthews Paint Colors, or Sherwin Williams Paint Colors. We cannot guarantee match on metallics and neon colors.
- Color matching will add an additional 24-48 hours to your production time.
- We CANNOT color match gradients, drop shadows and faded images.
industry terms and common definitions
The following is extracted from “Terms of the Trade” in the Buyers Guide, written by the staff of Sign & Digital Graphics magazine.
Acrylic– An extruded or cast rigid plastic characterized by its clarity and ability to accept color.
Additive colors or RGB- An emissive color system using the primary colors, red, green, and blue. Its used in computer monitors, televisions, etc.
Aliasing– Visual stair stepping of of edges that occurs in an image when the resolution is too low for the size of the output.
Aqueous inks– inks that use water as a carrier. Aqueous inks may contain dyes or pigments as colorants.
Aspect Ratio– The height-to-width measurement of an image as displayed on a monitor and ultimately printed. Ratio can change in pixel size, although most computers use a
1:1 ratio.
Attribute– A distinguishing characteristic. The characteristics of color are hue, contrast, and saturation.
Backlit Sign– A sign consisting of a cabinet containing a light source surrounded by one or more translucent faces, illuminated for visibility.
Banner– A sign usually made of fabric, vinyl, or other non-rigid material with no enclosing framework. May be painted, screen printed, digitally printed or decorated with vinyl.
Banner Finishing– Various applications used to complete a banner to include seaming, hemming, pockets, reinforcement, clear tape, hook-and-loop velcro, grommet, etc.
Bevel– A 3D effect that can be applied to text elements, cuts or the edges of dimensional signs.
Bitmap– Refers to images made of rows and columns of monochrome or multi-colored pixels. or dots. for displaying or printing. Bitmap image formats include: AI for Adobe Illustrator Encapsulated Postscript, BMP for Windows Bitmap, EPS for encapsulated postscript, GIF for graphics exchange format, JPEG or JPG for Joint Photographic Experts Group, TIFF for Tagged Image File Format.
Bleed- the portion of the print that extends beyond the area of the finished print.
Brightness– a measurement of the reflective quality of the medium such as paper or vinyl.
CAD– Computer-aided design. The use of computer programs to design detailed models of tradeshow exhibits, exhibits and displays.
Calendered vinyl– vinyl sheeting squeezed between a series of heated rollers to achieve a small enough thickness for cutting with a knife plotter. Calendered vinyl is generally thicker and less expansive than cast vinyl.
Calibration– the operation of matching color shades and hues between any input and output device.
Cast acrylic– acrylic sheet produced by pouring acrylic resins into a mold and allowing them to cool. Yields best results from laser engraving.
Cast vinyl– a type of vinyl formed from spreading molten plastic mixture onto a carrier sheet in a thin layer, and then baking at high temps to remove solvents and fuse the remaining material into a film. Cast film is usually thinner, more pliable, and more expensive than calendered vinyl.
CMYK– (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) the four process colors used in most analog and digital printing systems.
CNC– (Computer Numeric Control) communications language used in some robotics and larger machine-controlled cutting devices such as computerized rotors.
Color Curve– Visual control used in photo-illustration and other graphics software to display color measurements and make tonal changes to an image.
Color Gamut– The range and scope of colors that can be reproduced by a specific display or output or display device.
Color Management– refers to the coordination of color with output and display. In output, color management is often handled on a device-by-device basis by imaging production software ( see also RIP).
Color Space– The set or model of how a device organizes color, assigning some formula- such as numeric values- as a way of replicating color. Examples of color spaces are RGB or CMY.
Color Specification– Color values used to numerically specify a color within a color system, such as the Pantone Matching Color System or PMS system of color spec-ing.
Contour Cut– with vinyl cutters and print-and-cut digital printing devices, the ability to cut around the outline of an image, both on the outer border and along any internal closed loop borders.
Contrast– in graphic design, the use of dissimilar or opposing elements, such as light and dark areas.
Curing– the effect of a chemical change in some inks brought about by the application of heat or ultraviolet light.
Cut Outs– lettering or graphics that are cut from another material. then attached to sign face to provide depth.
Decal– graphics or letters printed on a PSA film, and then cut out.
Delamination– the separation of layers when edges are over-exposed to moisture, temperature extremes, or UV light and result in adhesive failure.
Digital Printer– a printing device that is capable of translating digital data into hardcopy output. Technologies employed in digital printers include inkjet, thermal transfer, electrostatic, and laser photo imaging.
Dmin/Dmax– A measurement of density of a printed image; to be exact, ability of a tone to absorb light. Dmin is the lowest density measure and Dmax is the highest.
Dot Gain– Effect produced when individual sets of dots of color as with inkjet, spread and become larger than their intended size.
DPI– (Dots per Inch) A unit of measure used to describe the resolution capability ofa given piece of equipment by meanruing the number of individual dots the device can reproduce in a linear inch. The higher the number of dots, the less easy it is to distinguish individual dots, making the image appear sharper.
Drawing Program– An application often called a structured or vector drawing program, used to create and manipulate two-dimensional images and shapes as independent objects as opposed to bitmaped images.
Dress– to prepare and put in a finished condition; such as the edges and corners of a sign.
Dye Sublimation– Imaging process where colorants are vaporized with heat and pressure, and deposited on to a substrate to create an image. Typically the transfer is done to a polyester-based fabric for fabric graphics. Sublimation inks are mirror printed on a donor material (transfer paper) and then sublimated into the fabric using a heat press.
Dynamic Range– the measurement of contrast from highlight to shadow, and in some cases, the number of shades per primary color. This is one of the best ways to compare true ability of scanner. We use a BetterLight scanning back!
Engraving– a method of marking metal, plastic, or glass in a shallow, negative relief utilizing a bit or a graver. Our engraving is done with a laser.
EPS– (Encapsulated Postscript)- a file type that allows different types of information, such as colors and fill patterns, to be carried between software programs. Files can be bitmapped and vector information.
Extrusion– A Part created by forcing a raw material (usually aluminum framing or a plastic) through a die to create a specific shape.
File Compression– The process of condensing a file so that it requires less storage space.
Flat- Sometimes refers to rigid substrates which are printed to in UV printing, particularly metals, plastics and wood; an undecorated substrate.
Flatbed Printer– A digital printer designed to accommodate and print directly to various thicknesses of flat materials and rigid substrates.
Foam Board– A type of lightweight, rigid board used for interior signs. Foam boards consist of a foam center sheet laminated on one or both sides by a variety of substrates.
FTP– (File Transfer Protocol)- A standard protocol for transferring data over the internet.To use FTP, FTP software must be set up on both sending and receiving ends of an FTP transmission, and the client must have a username, password, and a valid target address on the server. This is used often for downloading large files and/or for sending to a far off location.
FTP Server– A computer than can receive requests for an FTP link from a client machine or the software on the machine that allows it to do so. This includes FTP server capability. also called an FTP host.
Gamma– Measurement of the degree of contrast between the lightest and the darkest tones of an image. Gamma is also noted as the slope of a curve in measurements of color values, and can be altered for display and output.
Gantry– Bridge on which the spindle assembly of certain computerized routers and engravers travel.The spindle usually travels along the length of the gantry for its X-movement. The gantry can also be mounted on the rails for movement along the Y-axis. This term is also used inkjet printing to describe the bridge on which the scanning print head assemblies is housed on certain flatbed printers.
Gradation– Transition between colors and shades, created by mixing percentages of a dominant and secondary color and then altering them in steps to create the change.
Grommet– A reinforced metal eyelet found in banners used to receive cords and other fasteners.
Header– A separate board above the rest of a sign that gives it a headline or contains a different advertising message for the same product. Most often seen with point-of-purchase advertising.
Heat-Activated Laminates– A type of adhesive used on some film laminates that is not sticky at room temperature but softens when heated, thus activating the adhesive.
Hue- The property of color that indicates the color name, such as purple, blue, or green, that can be specified by particular wavelengths.
Image Processing– Enhancing and manipulating an image, such as by adjusting its size, resolution, or color palette.
Initiation– With UV-curing ink, its the chain reaction of the liquid (monomer0 becoming a solid (polymer) state.
Inkjet Ink– The mixture of colored dyes in a suitable liquid used for digital printing, typically water-based, solvent-based, or uv curable. In our business, we use aqueous based inks with our dye sublimation fabric graphics!
Inkjet Printer– Device that drops liquid ink onto a substrate for printing. A piezo-based inkjet puts ink in a small chamber and then sends a charge to contract piezoelectric crystal lining the chamber and send the ink through the nozzles.
Intensity– The density or opaqueness of a color.
Interpolation– Process of increasing resolution of an image by creating new pixels via an averaging of the size and the colors of surrounding pixels. The result is more dots-per-inch (dpi) in resolution, although some sharpness may be lost.
JPEG/JPG- (Joint Photographic Experts Group) A type of compressed computer file used when sending photographic images through the internet.
Laminate– A process by which different materials are layered and then bonded together using adhesion. The end result may be the creation of a substrate- such as a medium-density overlay (MDO) or the protection of the underlying surface, as when a clear plastic film is laminated to a decorative surface.
Laser– An intense light beam with a very narrow band width, used in engraving and other cutting equipment.
Laser Engraver- Device used a directed,amplified beam of light to cut and mark material.
LED– (Light Emitting Diode) A semiconductor diode the emits light when voltage is applied; a solid state lighting component, used in backlighting for lightboxes.
Light Box- A slim cabinet with internal lighting, used to back light translucent graphic displays.
Magnetic Sheeting– Magnetized strip laminated to a flexible plastic sheet, usually sold in rolls for magnetic signs.
Negative Space– The area around and within the art and copy, also known as white space.
Nesting– The ability of a RIP program to intelligently arrange multiple print jobs efficiently in order to minimize substrate waste when printing. Also, the efficient placement of images or jobs in order to minimize waste while cutting.
Off-Gassing– A dye-sublimation term referring to the nature of sublimation inks to gradually vaporize and release gases into the atmosphere. This is a harmless product that occurs primarily when the image is placed under stress of heat and/or compression rollers.
Opacity– Measurement of resistance to light passing through a particular substrate.
Optical Resolution– The maximum physical or true resolution of a device without the use of software.
Out-of-Home Advertising (OOH)- The placement of advertising with strategic business or retail settings, often outdoors.
Overlap– Amount of material in a panel that duplicates the previous panel, allowing for proper alignment when assembling and installing; resulting in a bleed.
Overprint White- Printing application in which white ink is used as a background for reverse-printed transparent stocks, such as backlit images. White in this application is somewhat translucent. You can see this in day/night prints used with UV flatbed printing.
Panel- In printing, the division of a job based on the production area of a printing device. If a job size exceeds the production area (width on a printer), it can be divided into panels manually or using a RIP software program and then individually printed.
Pantone Matching System (PMS)- A numbering system for identifying 3000+ colors created through combinations of 14 base colors. The Pantone company produces numerous color-matching systems for standard print and computer applications.
Pass– In inkjet printing, this refers to the number of times a print head passes over a substrate depositing ink. The greater the number of passes, the more ink density is achieved.
Pegged Out– Mounting letters so they are separated from the surface on which they’re being attached. These pegged out letters may mounted this way also to keep stains from washing down on the letters or for visual impact, such as dimensionality.
PDF (Portable Document Format)- Electronic format from Adobe Systems, Inc. that allows the packaging of files for distribution across platforms for display and printing as originally designed.
Pixel– With digital production, a part of a picture that can be located and placed as an element along X and Y axes.
Pixelization– Process whereby the number of pixels are simply multiplied to increase resolution The result is a higher dpi, but the altering of detail from smooth to square-step lines or jaggies.
Plasma Display Panel– A type of flat screen display that is used for television, computer monitors, and dynamic signage. These are often incorporated into a trade show exhibit.
Plotter– Device that interprets information sent from a computer and moves a tool heat to a series of coordinates based on the devices X and Y axes.
Pole Sign– A free-standing sign, usually double-faced, mounted on a round pole, square tube or other fabricated member without any secondary support.
Polycarbonate– A type of plastic used in sign faces, noted for its heat resistance and impact strength.
Polypropylene– Usually a type of plastic used in banners, noted for its flexibility at low temperatures and its resistance to chemicals. Noted for its recyclability.
PostScript– Graphics language that created vector-based images that, by computer code, allows for proportional scaling. Its what makes most scalable type and artwork possible for most Windows and Macintosh-based graphics software.
PPI (Pixels per Inch)- In digital printing, it describes how many of the pixels in a raster image will occur in one inch. The higher the number of pixels-per-inch, the greater the resolution and the less distinguishable each becomes.
Preflighting– Checking a graphic file for potential problems before sending it for final output, essentially to find out font, color, and other problems. Usually done with software.
Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA)- An adhesive that activates it adhesive properties only when pressure is applied to the surfaces. Sometimes used to refer to vinyl with a pressure sensitive backing such as PSA vinyl.
Primary Colors– Color that cannot be created by mixing other colors within the gamut of a given color space, but mix to create all other color combinations within that space. Red, green, and blue (RGB) are additive primaries of emitted light; while cyan, magenta, and yellow (CMY) are subtractive primaries of reflected light. Black (K) is added to CMY to produce denser, truer black images.
Prime– To coat a substrate prior to the application of paint or adhesive.
Profile– In color management, a date file that describes various characteristics and attributes of a computer monitor, printer ink or media, which when
Acrylic– An extruded or cast rigid plastic characterized by its clarity and ability to accept color.
Additive colors or RGB- An emissive color system using the primary colors, red, green, and blue. Its used in computer monitors, televisions, etc.
Aliasing– Visual stair stepping of of edges that occurs in an image when the resolution is too low for the size of the output.
Aqueous inks– inks that use water as a carrier. Aqueous inks may contain dyes or pigments as colorants.
Aspect Ratio– The height-to-width measurement of an image as displayed on a monitor and ultimately printed. Ratio can change in pixel size, although most computers use a
1:1 ratio.
Attribute– A distinguishing characteristic. The characteristics of color are hue, contrast, and saturation.
Backlit Sign– A sign consisting of a cabinet containing a light source surrounded by one or more translucent faces, illuminated for visibility.
Banner– A sign usually made of fabric, vinyl, or other non-rigid material with no enclosing framework. May be painted, screen printed, digitally printed or decorated with vinyl.
Banner Finishing– Various applications used to complete a banner to include seaming, hemming, pockets, reinforcement, clear tape, hook-and-loop velcro, grommet, etc.
Bevel– A 3D effect that can be applied to text elements, cuts or the edges of dimensional signs.
Bitmap– Refers to images made of rows and columns of monochrome or multi-colored pixels. or dots. for displaying or printing. Bitmap image formats include: AI for Adobe Illustrator Encapsulated Postscript, BMP for Windows Bitmap, EPS for encapsulated postscript, GIF for graphics exchange format, JPEG or JPG for Joint Photographic Experts Group, TIFF for Tagged Image File Format.
Bleed- the portion of the print that extends beyond the area of the finished print.
Brightness– a measurement of the reflective quality of the medium such as paper or vinyl.
CAD– Computer-aided design. The use of computer programs to design detailed models of tradeshow exhibits, exhibits and displays.
Calendered vinyl– vinyl sheeting squeezed between a series of heated rollers to achieve a small enough thickness for cutting with a knife plotter. Calendered vinyl is generally thicker and less expansive than cast vinyl.
Calibration– the operation of matching color shades and hues between any input and output device.
Cast acrylic– acrylic sheet produced by pouring acrylic resins into a mold and allowing them to cool. Yields best results from laser engraving.
Cast vinyl– a type of vinyl formed from spreading molten plastic mixture onto a carrier sheet in a thin layer, and then baking at high temps to remove solvents and fuse the remaining material into a film. Cast film is usually thinner, more pliable, and more expensive than calendered vinyl.
CMYK– (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) the four process colors used in most analog and digital printing systems.
CNC– (Computer Numeric Control) communications language used in some robotics and larger machine-controlled cutting devices such as computerized rotors.
Color Curve– Visual control used in photo-illustration and other graphics software to display color measurements and make tonal changes to an image.
Color Gamut– The range and scope of colors that can be reproduced by a specific display or output or display device.
Color Management– refers to the coordination of color with output and display. In output, color management is often handled on a device-by-device basis by imaging production software ( see also RIP).
Color Space– The set or model of how a device organizes color, assigning some formula- such as numeric values- as a way of replicating color. Examples of color spaces are RGB or CMY.
Color Specification– Color values used to numerically specify a color within a color system, such as the Pantone Matching Color System or PMS system of color spec-ing.
Contour Cut– with vinyl cutters and print-and-cut digital printing devices, the ability to cut around the outline of an image, both on the outer border and along any internal closed loop borders.
Contrast– in graphic design, the use of dissimilar or opposing elements, such as light and dark areas.
Curing– the effect of a chemical change in some inks brought about by the application of heat or ultraviolet light.
Cut Outs– lettering or graphics that are cut from another material. then attached to sign face to provide depth.
Decal– graphics or letters printed on a PSA film, and then cut out.
Delamination– the separation of layers when edges are over-exposed to moisture, temperature extremes, or UV light and result in adhesive failure.
Digital Printer– a printing device that is capable of translating digital data into hardcopy output. Technologies employed in digital printers include inkjet, thermal transfer, electrostatic, and laser photo imaging.
Dmin/Dmax– A measurement of density of a printed image; to be exact, ability of a tone to absorb light. Dmin is the lowest density measure and Dmax is the highest.
Dot Gain– Effect produced when individual sets of dots of color as with inkjet, spread and become larger than their intended size.
DPI– (Dots per Inch) A unit of measure used to describe the resolution capability ofa given piece of equipment by meanruing the number of individual dots the device can reproduce in a linear inch. The higher the number of dots, the less easy it is to distinguish individual dots, making the image appear sharper.
Drawing Program– An application often called a structured or vector drawing program, used to create and manipulate two-dimensional images and shapes as independent objects as opposed to bitmaped images.
Dress– to prepare and put in a finished condition; such as the edges and corners of a sign.
Dye Sublimation– Imaging process where colorants are vaporized with heat and pressure, and deposited on to a substrate to create an image. Typically the transfer is done to a polyester-based fabric for fabric graphics. Sublimation inks are mirror printed on a donor material (transfer paper) and then sublimated into the fabric using a heat press.
Dynamic Range– the measurement of contrast from highlight to shadow, and in some cases, the number of shades per primary color. This is one of the best ways to compare true ability of scanner. We use a BetterLight scanning back!
Engraving– a method of marking metal, plastic, or glass in a shallow, negative relief utilizing a bit or a graver. Our engraving is done with a laser.
EPS– (Encapsulated Postscript)- a file type that allows different types of information, such as colors and fill patterns, to be carried between software programs. Files can be bitmapped and vector information.
Extrusion– A Part created by forcing a raw material (usually aluminum framing or a plastic) through a die to create a specific shape.
File Compression– The process of condensing a file so that it requires less storage space.
Flat- Sometimes refers to rigid substrates which are printed to in UV printing, particularly metals, plastics and wood; an undecorated substrate.
Flatbed Printer– A digital printer designed to accommodate and print directly to various thicknesses of flat materials and rigid substrates.
Foam Board– A type of lightweight, rigid board used for interior signs. Foam boards consist of a foam center sheet laminated on one or both sides by a variety of substrates.
FTP– (File Transfer Protocol)- A standard protocol for transferring data over the internet.To use FTP, FTP software must be set up on both sending and receiving ends of an FTP transmission, and the client must have a username, password, and a valid target address on the server. This is used often for downloading large files and/or for sending to a far off location.
FTP Server– A computer than can receive requests for an FTP link from a client machine or the software on the machine that allows it to do so. This includes FTP server capability. also called an FTP host.
Gamma– Measurement of the degree of contrast between the lightest and the darkest tones of an image. Gamma is also noted as the slope of a curve in measurements of color values, and can be altered for display and output.
Gantry– Bridge on which the spindle assembly of certain computerized routers and engravers travel.The spindle usually travels along the length of the gantry for its X-movement. The gantry can also be mounted on the rails for movement along the Y-axis. This term is also used inkjet printing to describe the bridge on which the scanning print head assemblies is housed on certain flatbed printers.
Gradation– Transition between colors and shades, created by mixing percentages of a dominant and secondary color and then altering them in steps to create the change.
Grommet– A reinforced metal eyelet found in banners used to receive cords and other fasteners.
Header– A separate board above the rest of a sign that gives it a headline or contains a different advertising message for the same product. Most often seen with point-of-purchase advertising.
Heat-Activated Laminates– A type of adhesive used on some film laminates that is not sticky at room temperature but softens when heated, thus activating the adhesive.
Hue- The property of color that indicates the color name, such as purple, blue, or green, that can be specified by particular wavelengths.
Image Processing– Enhancing and manipulating an image, such as by adjusting its size, resolution, or color palette.
Initiation– With UV-curing ink, its the chain reaction of the liquid (monomer0 becoming a solid (polymer) state.
Inkjet Ink– The mixture of colored dyes in a suitable liquid used for digital printing, typically water-based, solvent-based, or uv curable. In our business, we use aqueous based inks with our dye sublimation fabric graphics!
Inkjet Printer– Device that drops liquid ink onto a substrate for printing. A piezo-based inkjet puts ink in a small chamber and then sends a charge to contract piezoelectric crystal lining the chamber and send the ink through the nozzles.
Intensity– The density or opaqueness of a color.
Interpolation– Process of increasing resolution of an image by creating new pixels via an averaging of the size and the colors of surrounding pixels. The result is more dots-per-inch (dpi) in resolution, although some sharpness may be lost.
JPEG/JPG- (Joint Photographic Experts Group) A type of compressed computer file used when sending photographic images through the internet.
Laminate– A process by which different materials are layered and then bonded together using adhesion. The end result may be the creation of a substrate- such as a medium-density overlay (MDO) or the protection of the underlying surface, as when a clear plastic film is laminated to a decorative surface.
Laser– An intense light beam with a very narrow band width, used in engraving and other cutting equipment.
Laser Engraver- Device used a directed,amplified beam of light to cut and mark material.
LED– (Light Emitting Diode) A semiconductor diode the emits light when voltage is applied; a solid state lighting component, used in backlighting for lightboxes.
Light Box- A slim cabinet with internal lighting, used to back light translucent graphic displays.
Magnetic Sheeting– Magnetized strip laminated to a flexible plastic sheet, usually sold in rolls for magnetic signs.
Negative Space– The area around and within the art and copy, also known as white space.
Nesting– The ability of a RIP program to intelligently arrange multiple print jobs efficiently in order to minimize substrate waste when printing. Also, the efficient placement of images or jobs in order to minimize waste while cutting.
Off-Gassing– A dye-sublimation term referring to the nature of sublimation inks to gradually vaporize and release gases into the atmosphere. This is a harmless product that occurs primarily when the image is placed under stress of heat and/or compression rollers.
Opacity– Measurement of resistance to light passing through a particular substrate.
Optical Resolution– The maximum physical or true resolution of a device without the use of software.
Out-of-Home Advertising (OOH)- The placement of advertising with strategic business or retail settings, often outdoors.
Overlap– Amount of material in a panel that duplicates the previous panel, allowing for proper alignment when assembling and installing; resulting in a bleed.
Overprint White- Printing application in which white ink is used as a background for reverse-printed transparent stocks, such as backlit images. White in this application is somewhat translucent. You can see this in day/night prints used with UV flatbed printing.
Panel- In printing, the division of a job based on the production area of a printing device. If a job size exceeds the production area (width on a printer), it can be divided into panels manually or using a RIP software program and then individually printed.
Pantone Matching System (PMS)- A numbering system for identifying 3000+ colors created through combinations of 14 base colors. The Pantone company produces numerous color-matching systems for standard print and computer applications.
Pass– In inkjet printing, this refers to the number of times a print head passes over a substrate depositing ink. The greater the number of passes, the more ink density is achieved.
Pegged Out– Mounting letters so they are separated from the surface on which they’re being attached. These pegged out letters may mounted this way also to keep stains from washing down on the letters or for visual impact, such as dimensionality.
PDF (Portable Document Format)- Electronic format from Adobe Systems, Inc. that allows the packaging of files for distribution across platforms for display and printing as originally designed.
Pixel– With digital production, a part of a picture that can be located and placed as an element along X and Y axes.
Pixelization– Process whereby the number of pixels are simply multiplied to increase resolution The result is a higher dpi, but the altering of detail from smooth to square-step lines or jaggies.
Plasma Display Panel– A type of flat screen display that is used for television, computer monitors, and dynamic signage. These are often incorporated into a trade show exhibit.
Plotter– Device that interprets information sent from a computer and moves a tool heat to a series of coordinates based on the devices X and Y axes.
Pole Sign– A free-standing sign, usually double-faced, mounted on a round pole, square tube or other fabricated member without any secondary support.
Polycarbonate– A type of plastic used in sign faces, noted for its heat resistance and impact strength.
Polypropylene– Usually a type of plastic used in banners, noted for its flexibility at low temperatures and its resistance to chemicals. Noted for its recyclability.
PostScript– Graphics language that created vector-based images that, by computer code, allows for proportional scaling. Its what makes most scalable type and artwork possible for most Windows and Macintosh-based graphics software.
PPI (Pixels per Inch)- In digital printing, it describes how many of the pixels in a raster image will occur in one inch. The higher the number of pixels-per-inch, the greater the resolution and the less distinguishable each becomes.
Preflighting– Checking a graphic file for potential problems before sending it for final output, essentially to find out font, color, and other problems. Usually done with software.
Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA)- An adhesive that activates it adhesive properties only when pressure is applied to the surfaces. Sometimes used to refer to vinyl with a pressure sensitive backing such as PSA vinyl.
Primary Colors– Color that cannot be created by mixing other colors within the gamut of a given color space, but mix to create all other color combinations within that space. Red, green, and blue (RGB) are additive primaries of emitted light; while cyan, magenta, and yellow (CMY) are subtractive primaries of reflected light. Black (K) is added to CMY to produce denser, truer black images.
Prime– To coat a substrate prior to the application of paint or adhesive.
Profile– In color management, a date file that describes various characteristics and attributes of a computer monitor, printer ink or media, which when