Knowledge Bank: File Types

There are many different files types that desktop publishing software can create. Here is a bit of information about the most common.

Files Types

PDF (Portable Document Format)

PDF is the industry standard for digital document transfers and printing. PDF files can be used reliably, regardless of software, hardware or operating system. PDF documents are fixed scale, so the documents open the same everywhere. This is our preferred file format.

JPEG ( Joint Photographic Experts Group)

JPEG is a lossy compression format for images. Most images and photographs are in JPEG format, generally this format provides a much smaller file size than the alternatives. Because of the smaller file size, there is usually a loss of data.

TIF (Tagged Image File)

TIF is an uncompressed file format used for high quality graphics and images. TIF files hold more data than most other alternatives, however the option to compress is usually available on export. Because of the data retention of TIF, file sizes are expected to be larger.

PNG (Portable Network Graphics)

PNG is a raster graphics file format and is the most widely used lossless image format on the Internet. PNG has the ability to compress and uncompress images without reduction in quality. As PNG is raster based, it’s important to ensure files are created at the correct DPI.

EPS (Encapsulated Postscript)

EPS is a vector graphic file format used for creating scalable artwork. EPS files can be opened and edited within Adobe Illustrator at any time, which makes them perfect for creating logos, cut paths, and anything else that may require changes at a later date, or across different operating systems.

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics)

SVG is the file format used for creating cut paths for our Valiani and laser cutter. Cut paths can be created in Illustrator along with artwork, and then exported in the SVG format.

LDF (Large Document Format)

LDF is used in Photoshop for files larger than the standard PSD. LDF supports documents up to 300,000 pixels in any direction, making it ideal for saving large images – such as billboards or banners.

RAW (RAW Data)

RAW files are used in photography to produce the highest possible quality images from a DSLR. Most cameras give the option to use JPEG or RAW, but due to the lossy compression of JPEG, RAW can be used to retain additional image data that would otherwise be lost.

Other Files Types

There are lots of different file types, each with potential variations due to operating system, program version, export settings and final usage.

If you’re unsure about your file type and it is not listed here, do give us a call to see if we can use it. Usually a small conversion process can solve most file format problems, but we do occasionally find one that stumps us.

For more information on file types and whether we can use them contact us.

Knowledge Bank: InDesign

InDesign Image on screen

InDesign is the tool that brings Photoshop and Illustrator together. It is a vector based program, and is primarily used for layouts and creating multiple page documents. Typesetting is another strength of InDesign, and combined with the photo editing capabilities of Photoshop, and the scalable graphics of Illustrator, InDesign is perfect for creating graphic media for print.

Knowledge Bank: Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator

Illustrator is a vector based illustration program. Artwork created in illustrator can be scaled infinitely, both bigger and smaller. This is the perfect tool for designing logos and business stationery, however it does lack the ability to control pagination in the way InDesign does. Ideally your design components should be created using Illustrator to maximize quality and file compatibility.

Knowledge Bank: Photoshop

Photoshop Icon on Screen

The primary use of Photoshop is to retouch and edit your pixel-based images. Photoshop is a raster based editing program, which means images used within the software are made up of pixels / dots. We would not recommend Photoshop for creating illustrated designs or vector graphics, as the output files generally can’t be scaled without artwork pixilation or image quality reduction.

Bath’s local marketing centre

Minuteman Press has been producing a wide range of print materials in Bath for over 24 years. We have become Bath’s local marketing centre. We regularly invest in technology and equipment so that our customers have access to the latest innovative print and manufacturing tools.

High end digital print

Our digital print room

Our Xerox Iridesse is a leader in digital print technology, boasting incredibly high quality output at very impressive speeds. But what makes us really unique is the ability to print with GOLD, SILVER, WHITE, & CLEAR INK! GREAT OPTIONS FOR ADDING VALUE AND SECURITY!

Capable large format team

Our large format studio uses high quality inkjet and latex print methods to offer our clients large scale prints & signage with an emphasis on durability and versatility.

We’re a HP Eco Solutions trained company, and our inks are Greenguard Gold certified, making them suitable for use in sensitive environments such as schools and healthcare facilities.

Our recent investment in laser cutting and engraving has increased our range, capacity and reduced turnaround times.

Sign showing second level
Upstairs to signage cutting and engraving studio

We have bespoke cutting facilities suitable for making boxes, displays, prototypes, mock ups and many other cut-to-shape projects. Our cut media options include vinyl, PVC-free board, PVC, corrugated card, paper, and many other flat sheet materials.

Graphic design

Our designers can help bring your ideas to life from a simple concept to completion.
We can work with your existing brand identity, or help you build your new brand for the future. We love to help with all forms of design work, from full rebrands to simple logo designs.

Your success in business is our success. We use our social media channels to promote what our clients are doing. We’re happy to look after your direct mail campaigns and help to get your message out in a coherent way. We aren’t a specialist marketing agency, but we see what works and are a great sounding board for your ideas. Our advice is always free!

Your local marketing centre

Your local marketing centre

For many companies we have become a local extension of their own marketing team. Bath;s leading local marketing centre.

We work with over 1,500 businesses from tiny start ups to corporate empires, and we see this client base as one big business network! We’re always looking at opportunities for our clients to help each other and love helping to create new connections.

Contact us today to find out more about we can do for your business.

Printed Site Boards in Bath

Correx board printing is the perfect weatherproof solution for displays, exhibitions, retail outlets and everything in between. We use correx board for printed site boards in Bath. Ideal for outdoor signage.

Correx board close up
Close up of correx board

Our customers range from demolition to construction and home improvement companies. As well as estate agents and property developers.

Many finalists in the Bath Property Awards also use site boards to promote themselves to passer bys.

With great clients like Bath Demolition ordering boards in their hundreds. Great set ups like NGS Resin Groundworks and Resurfacing with high end bespoke projects, and all businesses in between.

When lightweight, cheap signs are needed, our correx boards make for the perfect campaign signs, placards, and event signage. You will see our printed site boards all around town.

At Minuteman Press in Bath we can design print and deliver your site boards to complement your company’s identity.

Bespoke made, no run to small or to large and we can discuss pricing to and options to fit your budget. Contact us today for more information about our printed correx site boards.

Local Printer for Property Awards

The Bath Property Awards choose local printer as official supplier for awards. Bath based MediaClash publish Bath Life Magazine and run a variety of events across the South West. These include Bath Life Awards, Bristol Life Awards, Exeter Living Awards and Cardiff Life Awards.

Minuteman Press Van in local printer location
Official Supplier for Local Printer

This year Minuteman Press Bath will be the official print and signage supplier for the awards. They cover everything from programmes, signage and exhibition displays to window stickers for finalists and winners.

The local printer for property awards

The finalists have been published on the Bath Property Awards website.

“It’s important to recognise what the property and development sector brings to our city and to celebrate the successes of all those involved”

Dave Dixon, Director of Marketing at Minuteman Press Bath

The company provides a range of services to the property and development sector. From van graphics and site boards, build plans and architect drawings, through to glossy brochures to help sell the finished build. They are a full service print provider with decades of experience and an arsenal of modern machinery at their fingertips. They work with a broad range of businesses in the property sector.

“We are delighted to once again be working with Minuteman Press Bath. They know our business needs and are always responsive to last minute requirements. As a Bath based company, using and supporting a local printer for our events is important in boosting the local economy”

Claudia Butler, Head of Events at Mediaclash

The awards celebrate the dynamic Bath property sector, the organisers are using their local printer.

Taking place on the 4th November at the Apex Hotel in Bath it will be a big hit for local businesses.