Question : Illustrator Tints

Had a slight problem earlier this week sending a PDF file created in illustrator to print. Basically the optacity settings didn't carry across to the printer ( a digital press ).

The printer has advised that we need to send future files with tinted swatches. Whe we are working in illustrator is there a way of setting up the programme so that when you import a pantone from the swatch pallet it automatically brings in 25% 50% 75% tint versions?

I only ask because when you start a new document it brings in those tints for the basic pantones automatically.

I am in Illustrator 9.

Best ideas to make my life easier get the points even if the answer is an updgrade.
I haven't checked out the newer versions.

Answer : Illustrator Tints

Man, I don't even remember version 9. You sure it's Illustrator?? ;)

This will work in version 10 and newer, not sure about 9.

Make your tints and then add them as new swatches to the swatch library. Now, save the swatch library. In version 10 and above, you can make the new swatch library persistent so it will load everytime you open Illustrator. If that doesn't work, you can always just load the new swatch library you just saved.

Hope it helps,

MH