Fast Access to Essential Information

This appendix provides quick-reference tables, checklists, and troubleshooting guides for fast problem-solving and workflow optimization.

A.1 Resize Modes Quick Reference Table

Quick Decision Guide

Use FIT when:

• Design aspect ratio ≠ template aspect ratio

• You must show the entire design

• Empty space is acceptable

Use FILL when:

• Design aspect ratio ≈ template aspect ratio

• Edge-to-edge coverage is priority

• Design has safe zones (no critical elements near edges)

Use STRETCH when:

• Design aspect ratio = template aspect ratio

• You need exact, predictable placement

• Maximum control is required

Use NO RESIZE when:

• Troubleshooting sizing issues

• Testing template compatibility

• Design is pre-sized to exact dimensions

A.2 Processing Types

Settings Selection Guide

All Processing Types use numbered settings (not named).

How to Choose Your Setting:

1. Run test batch with ONE design through ALL settings

2. Print/engrave actual products using your equipment

3. Compare mockups to real products side-by-side

4. Note which setting best matches your production

5. Document your findings (e.g., “Wood Coasters = Setting 3”)

6. Use that setting consistently for future batches

Why Numbered?

• Every laser/printer has different power, speed, and material settings

• Your equipment produces unique results

• No universal “correct” setting exists - You must test to find YOUR best match

A.3 File Requirements Checklist

Design Files (PNG)

Required:

✅ PNG file format

✅ Transparent background

✅ 300 DPI resolution minimum

✅ RGB color mode

✅ Design centered on canvas

✅ Canvas sized to design footprint edge (minimal empty space)

✅ High-quality source files (no pixelation)

Not Supported:

❌ JPG files (no transparency)

❌ TIFF files

❌ SVG files (vector format)

❌ AI files (Adobe Illustrator)

❌ PSD files (designs must be PNG; templates are PSD)

Best Practices:

• Use descriptive file names (e.g., Square-Wood.png, Rectangle-Print.png)

• Organize by shape and substrate

• Keep originals in separate folder

• Use consistent naming convention

Template Files (PSD)

Required:

✅ PSD file format

✅ Compatible with Photoshop CC 2019+

✅ Contains at least one smart object

✅ 300 DPI resolution recommended

✅ Smart object properly configured

Best Practices:

• Include reference JPG for each template (e.g., WoodenCoaster.psd + WoodenCoaster.jpg)

• Organize by substrate type (Wood, Slate, Glass, Print)

• Use descriptive file names

• Test templates before large batches

System Requirements

Software:

✅ Adobe Photoshop CC 2019 or later (subscription version)

✅ Active Bulk Made subscription (Standard or Pro)

✅ Internet connection (for initial login only)

Hardware:

✅ Windows 10+ or macOS 10.13+ (High Sierra)

✅ Minimum 10 GB free disk space

✅ SSD recommended for faster processing

✅ 8 GB RAM minimum (16 GB+ recommended)

Output Settings

File Format:

• JPG or PNG (selectable via radio buttons)

• JPG recommended for most uses (smaller files, faster processing)

JPG Quality:

• Scale: 1–12 - Default: 8 (recommended)

• Web/online stores: 7–9

• Print materials: 10–12

File Naming:

• Automatic naming based on PNG name, PSD name, and settings

• Customizable concatenation options

• Systematic organization for easy file management

When to Contact Support

Contact support@bulkmade.com if:

• Quick fixes don’t resolve the issue

• You see persistent error messages

• Plugin won’t install or load

• Processing consistently fails

• You suspect a bug or technical issue

Include in your support email:

• Operating system (Windows/Mac version)

• Photoshop version

• Exact error message (screenshot if possible

• Steps you’ve already tried

• Example files (if applicable)

Response time: 24–48 hours (business days)

Quick Tips for Success

✅ Always test with small batches first (5–10 mockups)

✅ Organize files before processing (Templates, Designs, Output folders)

✅ Use descriptive file names (shape + substrate)

✅ Create reference libraries for Processing Types

✅ Keep 10+ GB disk space free

✅ Close other programs during processing

✅ Back up your mockups regularly

✅ Document your settings for future batches