Prepress Services · Dallas, TX
Precision Prepress. Zero Press Surprises.
Our experienced prepress team catches every issue before it reaches the press — ensuring your artwork is technically perfect, colour-accurate, and ready for production.
Prepress is the critical bridge between your design and the final printed product. Even beautifully designed artwork can produce disappointing results if it is not correctly prepared for print. Astro Graphics has operated a dedicated in-house prepress department since our founding in 1969. Our team of prepress specialists checks, corrects, and optimises every file we receive — catching issues that would otherwise result in costly reprints, colour shifts, or production delays. Whether you supply print-ready files or need us to prepare artwork from scratch, our prepress process ensures that what you see on the proof is what you get off the press.
Who We Serve
Products & Use Cases
Specifications
Formats, Sizes & Options
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Accepted file formats | PDF/X-1a, PDF/X-4, AI (CS6+), EPS, INDD (CS6+ packaged), PSD (300 dpi), TIFF (300 dpi) |
| Preferred colour mode | CMYK for process printing; Pantone (PMS) for spot colour work |
| Minimum image resolution | 300 dpi at 100% final print size (bitmap/line art: 1200 dpi) |
| Bleed requirement | Minimum 3mm on all trim edges; 5mm recommended for large-format |
| Safe zone | Minimum 5mm inside trim for all critical content (text, logos, key images) |
| Proofing options | Digital PDF soft proof (all jobs), physical inkjet contract proof (colour-critical work), press proof (available on request) |
| Preflight software | Enfocus PitStop, Adobe Acrobat Pro, in-house proprietary checklist |
File Setup
Artwork & File Preparation
Colour & Proofing
Colour Matching & Proof Approval
Every job receives a digital PDF proof before production. This proof is generated from the actual press-ready file and reflects the colour intent of your artwork.
For colour-critical work — brand materials, packaging, fine art reproduction — we produce a physical contract proof on calibrated equipment. This is the industry standard for colour approval.
Our proofing system is calibrated to ISO 12647-2 standards for offset printing. Contract proofs carry a colour bar that verifies calibration.
Pantone colours are verified against current PMS swatch books. We will advise you if a specified Pantone colour falls outside the CMYK gamut and suggest the closest achievable match.
Once a proof is approved in writing, any colour variation within ±5 Delta E of the approved proof is considered within tolerance and is not grounds for a reprint.
How It Works
The Ordering Process
File Submission
Upload your artwork files via our secure file transfer link or email. Include a brief specifying the job details, quantity, stock, and any special requirements.
Preflight & Check
Our prepress team runs a full preflight check within one business day. We report any issues and advise on corrections required before proceeding.
Proof Issuance
A digital proof is issued for your review. For colour-critical work, a physical contract proof is produced. We do not proceed to press without written approval.
Plate-Making & Press
Approved files are output to plate via our CTP system and scheduled on press. Your job is produced to the approved proof standard.
Pricing
What Affects Your Quote
Every project is unique. We provide detailed, itemised quotations based on your exact requirements. The following factors influence the final price:
Turnaround
Production & Delivery Times
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Started?
Tell us about your project and we will provide a detailed, no-obligation quotation within one business day.
Request a Quote