Q. What printer do you use to print
your banners? A. We use a Mutoh Falcon II 6 color outdoor printer using
solvent-based, UV-Resistant inks at 1440 dpi. TOP OF
PAGE Q. What type of inks do you use? A. We use
genuine solvent-based inks. This is important to you. Solvent-based inks are
waterproof, and stand up to the damaging effects of UV rays much better than
water-based inks. They are simply tougher and more durable. TOP OF PAGE Q. What process do you use to print
banners? A. We use an enhanced CMYK process. Others will tell you to send
your files as RGB and they then print that, letting the system convert the
colors. We don't. The RGB color space is larger than CMYK. This gives you the
impression that you can achieve certain colors that are simply not possible
using CMYK. We recommend working in CMYK so you know in advance what colors you
are likely to get. TOP OF PAGE Q.
Can you match special colors? A. Some special
colors for instance, colors used in corporate logos are
often achieved with offset printing by using a spot color ink. For banners we
print using enhanced process CMYK inks. (For any printer it isn't possible to
exactly reproduce a spot color using the CMYK process. NO matter where you go
there will be what is known as a "color shift" using the CMYK process to print
a spot color ink.) The good news is we are honest about that and we give you a
very close match. Also keep in mind banners are normally meant for viewing from
a distance of at least 12 or 15 feet. This has impact on how the colors are
viewed. TOP OF PAGE Q.
What kind of vinyl do you use? A. We use 13 or 14 oz. bright white,
outdoor grade vinyl material. TOP OF PAGE Q.
How should I give you my artwork? A. The best format is Illustrator. In most
cases, if you can give it to us as a vectored Illustrator file format, we
should have no problem working with your artwork. If we are printing your
banner from a bitmapped file (created in Adobe Photoshop or a similar photo
editing application) almost any file format at 100 ppi at full size will work
fine. TOP OF PAGE Q.
What software programs can you print from? A. We can print from all the
leading desktop publishing programs on both Mac and Windows platforms. These
include QuarkXpress, PageMaker, and InDesign. While challenging, printing from
programs such as MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint, or Publisher, is often successful
with no issues encountered. However, you can rest assured that if any issues
are encountered, STC will notify you before any action is taken. We pride
ourselves on our customer service and reputation. If you have images or
illustrations created in PhotoShop or Illustrator, it is usually best to supply
us with the native files rather than trying to convert or export them to some
specific format. TOP OF PAGE Q.
Do you accept Zip, Jazz or CDs? A. We accept 3.5 inch floppies, Zip, Jazz
and CDs. TOP OF PAGE Q.
What's the largest file size I can email you? A. We can accept up to 6 megs as
an attachment to an e-mail. TOP OF PAGE Q.
Can I transfer the files to you via the internet? A. Yes. We
have an Upload Page, which allows you to use your web browser to transfer your
files. We also have FTP transfer available. For FTP info call
203-327-1441. TOP OF PAGE Q.
Why shouldn't I use my web site images? A. Unfortunately, most web
images are optimized to load quickly, which means its file size is usually
small and its resolution 72dpi. When this small image is enlarged for banners,
the resulting image quality is usually very poor. TOP OF
PAGE Q. Can you put my logo on my
banner? A. Yes. We can use almost any high quality logo
artwork. TOP OF PAGE Q.
How large should I get my banner? A. We can make banners to almost any size
that you need. What you need to determine is how far away your viewing audience
will be and make sure the lettering is large enough. Please refer to our
artwork page for help with this subject. TOP OF PAGE Q. Can you help me design my banner if I give you an idea
of what I want? A. Yes. Provide us with a sketch or description and
we will do a finished design. Our in house design team can add text, graphics
or complete virtually any custom art application for your specific needs.
However, for client-specific art, such as logos, we require "ready-to-print"
artwork, or fees will be incurred. Please E-Mail us at jobs@stc4color.com for
any questions regarding this subject. TOP OF PAGE Q. How long will a banner last? A. Our full
color outdoor banner can last three years or more even if permanently installed
outdoors. However, the wild cards of installation and the weather are
important. We can't do anything about the weather, but you can do something
about your installation. So secure your banners as best you can. TOP OF PAGE Q. How do we install the
banners? A. Our banners come with attached grommets every 2-3 feet so you
can securely mount them to a variety of surfaces. You can either mount your
banner directly to a wall using screws and washers. Against a chain link fence,
fasten through the grommets with nylon ties or wire. Also you can run a rope
through the grommets and attach your banner to two poles. TOP OF PAGE Q. How should I store my banner so
it lasts longer? A. All banners should be rolled with the print facing
outward. Don't fold your banner. If you fold or flatten banners, they can
develop permanent creases. Don't store your banner in extreme heat. TOP OF
PAGE Q. Is the STC order process
secure? A. Ordering via Fax is extremely secure. TOP OF PAGE Q. Can I place an order over the
telephone? A. Unfortanutely, no, but you can fax it or e-mail it. TOP OF PAGE Q. Can you work with both Mac and
Windows files? A. Yes. We were there at the birth of desktop and have done
thousands of jobs on both platforms. TOP OF PAGE Q. Can you bleed images off the edges of your banners?
A. Yes. When preparing the artwork, make the image area about
.5" larger where you want a bleed. TOP OF PAGE Q. Can I save money by buying more than one
banner? A. Yes. STC discounts duplicate banners. For amounts
see our Custom Banners page. For large amounts of banners volume discounts are
calculated for each individual project. E-Mail us at
jobs@stc4color.com. TOP OF PAGE Q.
Can I get a special size banner? A. Yes. If you need a 10x20 or any other
odd size banner, we can do it. TOP OF PAGE Q.
Do the banners have holes for hanging? A. Yes, your banner can have
metal reinforced holes (grommets) every 2-3 feet. TOP OF
PAGE Q. Do the banners have slits for
wind? A. Only if requested. Our banners are heavy and will hold up
fine in regular to moderate winds. If wind is a special concern of the planned
location let us know and we can create wind slits. TOP OF
PAGE Q. Will I get a proof for my
banner? A. We email a proof (.PDF or .JPG) for you to approve
before printing. We need your OK before proceeding. TOP OF PAGE Q. What if I don't like the design
on the proof you send? A. We're happy to take suggestions on changes and
revise your proof to make you satisfied. Significant alterations may require
art charges. TOP OF PAGE Q.
How long does it take to print my banner? A. Our normal turnaround is
approximately 4 days, but faster turnaround is available. For 2 day turnaround,
add 25%. TOP OF PAGE Q.
How do you ship your banners? A. Choices available include
FedEx 2 day (most economical), FedEx Standard, or FedEx Priority Overnight. We
also ship UPS Ground. If you would like to use another form of shipping, please
let us know. We will be glad to accommodate your needs. TOP OF PAGE Q. What methods of payment do you
accept? A. We accept Visa Mastercard, American Express and
Corporate Purchase Orders after a credit application has been approved. Payment
must be received in full before the final product is shipped. Any other
questions you have we will be glad to answer. Simply fill out the form and
click Submit.
Testimonials
“Thank you. I am very pleased
with the banner and your exceptional level of customer service. I will
recommend you to many.” Laura
Huemer Goldfinch
Books “I am very satified with the banner that we
purchased! Great color and quality; It turned out great. Thank
you.” Christie
Thackxton
Grisham Four
County Wellness Center “They arrived and they look awesome.
Thanks very much.” Michele
Anderson Australian
Wines “We got the banner and it looks great! Thanks so
much!” Mary J.
Stanley Geneva
Advisors
