PrintShot File Creation
**NOTE** This example is created in Adobe Illustrator. However, the pattern can be made in any software similar to Illustrator.
To Create a PrintShot Ready Pattern
- Create three layers: Artwork, Thru-cut, and Register.
- Create two different colors, one named Thru-cut and the other named Register. Make sure the colors are spot colors.
- Place the actual print design on the Artwork layer.
- Using the Pen tool, draw the paths for the Thru-cut outline around the pattern that you wish to have cut out. The path should have the Thru-Cut Spot Color with a 1pt stroke and be placed on the Thru-cut layer.
- Use the Ellipse tool to create Register Markers on the Register layer. Start at the bottom left corner and create three markers, 1 inch apart that make a right angle. Register Markers must have a diameter from .25in to .75in. With no Stroke and the Register, Spot Color fill. the Fill color should be black. The larger the diameter, the better.
- Place markers evenly distributed around the outside of each pattern.
- TO CREATE THE PRINT FILE: Turn off the Thru-cut layer, leaving the Artwork and Register layers turned on. Save your file as a .PDF with fonts converted to outlines.
- TO CREATE THE CUT FILE: Turn off the Artwork layer, leaving the Thru-cut and Register laters turned on. Save as a .PDF file.
Opening The PrintShot Ready Pattern
Go to File and click Open. Choose the cut file just created. Choose what layers you want, usually the Register and Thru-cut layers, and select which layer is the Register Markers. Click OK.
