FAQS

All custom papers require approval from the Print Lab Manager. We do not have color profiles for custom papers so colors may not be accurate and often contrast is lost significantly, especially with uncoated papers.

We accept TIFFs or JPEGs. If your file has ONLY vector imagery then an EPS is acceptable but if it contains any raster (pixel) imagery please make it a TIFF or JPEG.

This will depend on the kind of file you have.

For Raster images (pixel-based) use the following method in Photoshop:

1. Determine what your image size will be, it must fit within the printable area
2. Check your image in the Image Size menu. Width and Height should match what you decided and resolution should be set to 300 ppi.
3. If you need to make changes here, follow these steps, in order, to maintain quality:
   
   1. Uncheck Resample
   2. Set Resolution to 300
   3. Check Resample
   4. Set your width/height
4. Now save your image as a JPEG or TIFF. (your extension should look like this or the print software will not read it: ".jpg", ".tif")

For Vector images use the following method in Illustrator:

1. Image dimensions would have been determined when you first created the file.
2. To change start by reducing your artboard size to fit within the printable area.
3. You may need to resize your artwork to fit the new artboard.
4. Save the image as an EPS. Check the “Use Artboards” box.

Note: If your design has any raster images in it, please export it as a JPEG or TIFF instead.

Whatever method you use please note that JPEGs from Procreate communicate oddly with our print software. So please export them as a TIFF.

The recommended method is to AirDrop them as a TIFF directly from Procreate to one of our computers.

The recommended color settings for your files for printing in our Lab is to have your images set to RGB with a Color Space set to AdobeRGB1998.

We can accommodate a wide variety of sizes. We carry sheet sizes of 8.5x11, 11x17, and 13x19. If you need larger we have rolls of paper in 17", 24" and 44".

Please note that all these papers have a non-printable margin so the print area is smaller that the sheet size. So in terms of printable area the sizes would be 8.25x10.25, 10.75x16.25, and 12.75x18.25. Rolls would be 16.5", 23.5", and 43.5".

To use the Riso printer itself, yes you need an appointment.

However, if you would like to use any of the other equipment or workspaces, i.e. Guillotine stack cutters, scoring presses, saddle stitch stapler, etc., you are welcome to come in during open hours.

To make an appointment click on “Book Now” on this site. Appointments are required to be made 1 day in advance and are set to 30 min slots, you can then sign up for more than one if needed.

**Remember that Riso can be a long process. Allow yourself adequate time and if you are printing more than two colors, you will need to sign up for a return time at least 24 hours after your first print to finish the job.

Dry times can vary depending on the amount of ink used and the type of paper. To prevent ink from getting on the rollers and creating track marks on following prints the Riso Lab has a mandatory 24hr dry time after a 2 color run.

No. The lab has a standard paper supply that includes 2 different sizes and weights of each color/type.

You are welcome to bring in your own as long as it is an uncoated paper that meets the size and weight requirements.

The following papers work well with the Risograph process:

• French Paper Co.
• Domtar Earthchoice Colors
• Mohawk Via Vellum
• Neenah Exact Vellum Bristol or Astrobrights

If you use your own paper the minimum weight accepted is 12 lb. (46g/m²) And the maximum weight is 110 lb. (210g/m²)

Coated papers such as an inkjet or laser paper, or papers with very smooth or glossy surfaces do NOT work well with the Risograph.

If you are unsure about a paper please discuss it with the Riso Lab Manager.

The Riso Lab’s standard stock of paper comes from the French Paper Co. We carry a small range from plain white to Kraft brown, some with speckletone some plain.

We carry two sizes, A4= 8.5”x11” & A3= 11”x17”. A4 comes in both text and cover weight. A3 comes in just text weight.

No. Your presence will be required for approving proofs as each layer is sent through. And also to help make sure your project is sent through just right.

The minimum size will vary depending on if you are printing one color or 2.

Single Color minimum size = 4”x6”

Dual Color minimum size = 8”x11”

The Maximum for both single and dual is 12”x17”

Please note that though the printer will accept 12×17 paper the maximum printing area is 11×17. There are print margins on all sizes as well, please see print area graphic on the Resources page.

If you’d like, you can use all 12 colors available. But please keep in mind that the Riso Lab has a mandatory 24hr dry time period. Since the printer can print 2 colors at once there would be a 24hr drying period between each pair of colors. Factor that in when preparing your design.

If you use your own paper the minimum weight accepted is 12 lb. (46g/m²) And the maximum weight is 110 lb. (210g/m²)

Any papers outside of those parameters will cause paper jams.