Prepare cleaner, more reliable print files with the correct size, bleed, safety margin, image resolution, color mode, fonts and PDF export settings.
A few minutes of file preparation can prevent production delays, unexpected trimming, blurry images and color surprises.
A properly exported PDF is the most reliable way to preserve page size, fonts, images, color and layout across different systems.
Build the document at the exact final size shown for the product. Do not place a smaller design on a larger page unless instructed.
Extend background colors, photos and graphics 1/8 inch beyond the trim on every side to help prevent white edges after cutting.
Keep important text, logos and critical graphics at least 1/8 inch inside the trim line.
Use images at 300 DPI at final printed size. Enlarging a small image lowers its effective resolution.
Prepare standard full-color artwork in CMYK. RGB colors can shift when converted for commercial printing.
Embed fonts, convert them to outlines, or package the source file with all fonts and linked images.
Review shadows, transparency, overprints and special effects. Flatten them when the application or production method requires it.
Submit only artwork, images, logos and content that you own or have permission to reproduce.
Cutting equipment requires a small production tolerance. Bleed extends beyond the trim, while the safety margin keeps important content away from the cutting edge.
These are among the most frequent reasons artwork requires correction or customer approval before production can begin.
Answers about PDFs, bleed, resolution, color and source files.
A high-quality, print-ready PDF is preferred because it preserves page size, fonts, images and layout more reliably.
Include 1/8 inch, or 0.125 inch, beyond every finished trim edge unless the product template specifies a different amount.
Website images are often 72 DPI and may print poorly. Use approximately 300 DPI at the final printed size whenever possible.
RGB is designed for screens. Standard full-color printing uses CMYK, so converting before submission gives you a more realistic preview of printable color.
Yes. Outlining or embedding fonts helps prevent missing font warnings, substitutions and changes to text spacing.
These files may be accepted, but they can reflow or display differently between computers. Exporting a high-quality PDF is usually more reliable.
Upload the best files you have and contact our team. We can review the artwork and explain what adjustments may be required.
For printing terminology, visit our Printing Glossary .
Send the files you have or contact our team when you are unsure about size, bleed, resolution, color or export settings.
