Questions and Answers

1. What do I do with the file I've just downloaded?
Our files are compressed in zip archives, for safe travel over the internet. Your computer may decompress it to a folder automatically. If not, you will need to do it manually by using a free utility such as (Windows) or (Mac and Windows). Once you do this, a directory will appear on your computer, with the clip art inside. If you cannot find this directory, try doing a search for the name of the volume. For example, if you've unzipped a file called "swing.zip," a search for "swing" should locate the directory.

2. What graphic format/resolution are they saved in?
Adobe Illustrator EPS format for both Mac and Windows. Windows users get an additional set of WMF files. These are vector formats, which means they are resolution independent, so will not break up, regardless of what size you make them. Unlike bitmap formats (such as JPEG and TIFF) where resolution affects output quality, our clip art prints perfectly at any size.

3. I have Windows, should I use EPS or WMF?
Use EPS if you have a Postscript compatible printer. If you don't have one, or if you're not sure, try WMF.

EPS is a Postscript format that is the preferred way to store our type of clipart. But in Windows, Postscript has not been as well supported as on Macs, although that is changing. Without Postscript compatible software or printers, EPS graphics may not display and print properly. So to alleviate this problem, we also save our files in WMF format, which is a common Windows format that does not rely on Postscript.

The difference in output between EPS and WMF graphics to laser or inkjet printers is unnoticeable. But if you plan to send your files to a service bureau or print shop for output, EPS format should be used.

4. Why can't I open the clipart by double-clicking on it?
Because you may not have a program assigned to open these types of graphic files, so must access the clip art from within the program you are using. If you are using a graphics program, the command is usually "file-open," and then select the image you want. For other programs, especially page layout and word processing programs, the command is usually "file-place, file-insert, insert-picture, get-picture" or something like that. Consult your software manual's section on how to use graphic files for more detailed information.

5. Do you do custom work?
Yes we do. Feel free to get in contact with any requests.