How to properly create files
In order to create a layout for your desk calendars with a free template, you have to follow a simple set of rules.
1. Graphic files – 13 sheets
Desk calendars with the free 13-sheet template (26 pages) are generally printed both on the front and back sides. Since they are generally placed on desks, they need to be printed on both sides!
So, set up a 26-page file in reading order from the cover to the last month, that is December. Place the months and the days on odd pages (p. 1 for the cover not included). While, on the back of the pages (that is, on even pages), put a picture or a graphic that does not need to be read on a daily basis.
1. Graphic files – 7 sheets
For desk calendars with the free 7-sheet template, you should take into account a very important aspect of the reading order: for the calendar to be turned only once throughout the year (instead of every month), please follow the suggested layout order in the chart shown on this page.
In this way, the calendar pages can be turned only once.
As usual, our suggestion is to make a double-sided print proof of the file (also a reduced version of it) before sending it for printing so that you can check it out yourself.
Example of a 7-page desk calendar order
| Sheet | Front pages | Back pages |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | P.1 - Cover | P.2 - Back of the cover (general information) |
| 2 | P.3 - January | P.4 - December |
| 3 | P.5 - February | P.6 - November |
| 4 | P.7 - March | P.8 - October |
| 5 | P.9 - April | P.10 - September |
| 6 | P.11 - May | P.12 - August |
| 7 | P.13 - June | P.14 - July |
1. Graphic file – Custom number of pages
If your calendar has a different number of pages than the suggested ones, it is essential that you make a print proof so as to make sure that the order is correct. Moreover, it would be advisable to inform us about any details in the order notes.
2. File for the base
Try to think of the base as another graphic element! It can be ‘invisible’, that is if it is the same size of the calendar and it is not printed, there will be no need for you to attach any file for it. Otherwise, it can be visible and you can include your company’s logo or details on it so that you can always have them in front of you. If you want to download the template already including the 3cm for the base, the only thing you have to do is writing down the size of your calendar on the product form and then download the template.
How to design the visible base with Adobe Indesign:
The sizes to be taken into account are as follows: 2cm visible part (by adding a 0.2cm safety margin) for both sides and a 8cm lower base. So, let’s take the calendar format 15.6x12cm as an example. The base of the file we will create will be 15.6cm and we will have to calculate the height in the following way:
12cm(calendar's height)
+0.2cm(safety margin)
+2cm(visible part)
+8cm(base)
+2cm(visible part)
+0.2cm(safety margin)
+12cm(calendar's height)
total: 36.4 cm
Pay attention to punching
In order to avoid any problem with the graphics, make sure you pay particular attention to the space to be kept free for punching at the top edge. The space needed is 2cm from the top cut edge. Do not place any logos, texts or other important elements there in order to prevent them from being punched.
Checklist
Always remember that your file has to comply with the following features that apply to every file:
- 1:1 scale and 5mm bleed for each side
- CMYK colour model
- High-quality PDF
- Images resolution: 300ppi
- Always check the internal security margins.
For the complete checklist please read out Complete checklist file
Do you still have any doubts?
Ask for our Professional Check
Creating a perfect print file is not always a walk in the park. This is why our support service is ready to help you. In the product settings, you can opt for our Professional Check. In this way, our preprinting department will thoroughly check and fix any problem, if needed.
Otherwise, contact us. We are always willing to resolve any doubt.
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