Artwork Preparation Guide
Prepare Cleaner, More Reliable Print Files
Use this checklist before uploading artwork to reduce production delays, trimming issues, blurry images, missing fonts and unexpected
color changes.
Quick Preflight Checklist
Review These Items Before Uploading
A few minutes of file preparation can prevent production delays and unexpected results.
Correct Finished Size
Build the document at the exact final trim size.
0.125-Inch Bleed
Extend backgrounds beyond every trim edge.
0.125-Inch Safety
Keep critical text and logos inside the trim.
300 DPI Images
Use high-resolution images at final printed size.
CMYK Color
Convert standard full-color artwork from RGB to CMYK.
Fonts Secured
Embed fonts or convert them to outlines.
Effects Reviewed
Check transparency, shadows and overprint settings.
Print-Ready PDF
Export a high-quality PDF whenever possible.
Artwork Requirements
Build the File for Reliable Production
Finished Size
Build the document at the exact final size shown for the product. Do not place a smaller design on a larger page unless instructed.
Bleed
Extend background colors, photos and graphics 0.125 inch beyond the trim on every side to help prevent white edges after cutting.
Safety Margin
Keep important text, logos and critical graphics at least 0.125 inch inside the trim line.
Image Resolution
Use images at approximately 300 DPI at final printed size. Enlarging a small image reduces its effective resolution.
Color Mode
Prepare standard full-color artwork in CMYK. RGB colors may shift when converted for commercial printing.
Fonts and Links
Embed fonts, convert them to outlines, or package the source file with all fonts and linked images.
Transparency and Effects
Review shadows, transparency, overprints and special effects. Flatten them when required by the software or production method.
Copyright and Permission
Submit only artwork, images, logos and content that you own or have permission to reproduce.
Bleed, Trim and Safety
Understand the Three Key Boundaries
Cutting equipment requires a small production tolerance, so backgrounds and critical content must be positioned correctly.
BLEED AREA
TRIM LINE
SAFE CONTENT AREA
Keep important text and logos here
SAFETY LINE
How to Build the Artwork
For a standard full-bleed product, the document background extends beyond the finished edge while important content stays inside the
safety margin.
BleedExtends 0.125 inch beyond the final trim edge on every side.
TrimThe final finished edge after the product is cut.
SafetyKeeps critical text, logos and graphics at least 0.125 inch inside the trim.
Common File Issues
Problems That Can Delay Production
These are frequent reasons artwork requires correction or additional approval.
Missing Bleed
Backgrounds stop at the trim line and may leave white edges after cutting.
Low-Resolution Images
Images may print soft, blurry or visibly pixelated.
RGB Artwork
Screen colors can change when converted to CMYK for printing.
Missing Fonts
Text may substitute, reflow or display incorrectly.
Text Near the Edge
Important content may be too close to the cutting tolerance.
Missing Linked Images
Placed graphics may not be included with the source file.
Templates Override General Guidelines
Use the product-specific template whenever one is provided. Specialty products, shaped products, envelopes, booklets and large-format
items may require different bleed, safety or file setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions About Print Files
What is the best file type for printing?
A high-quality, print-ready PDF is preferred because it preserves page size, fonts, images and layout more reliably.
How much bleed should I include?
Include 0.125 inch beyond every finished trim edge unless the product template specifies a different amount.
Is 72 DPI acceptable for print?
Website images are often 72 DPI and may print poorly. Use approximately 300 DPI at final printed size whenever possible.
Why should I use CMYK instead of RGB?
RGB is designed for screens. Standard full-color printing uses CMYK, so converting before submission provides a more realistic preview
of printable color.
Should fonts be outlined or embedded?
Yes. Outlining or embedding fonts helps prevent missing font warnings, substitutions and changes to text spacing.
Can I submit Microsoft Word or PowerPoint files?
These files may be accepted, but they can reflow or display differently between computers. Exporting a high-quality PDF is usually
more reliable.
What should I do if my artwork is not print-ready?
Upload the best files you have and contact our team. We can review the artwork and explain what adjustments may be required.
Personal Artwork Assistance
Need Help Preparing Your Files?
Send the best files you have or contact us for guidance with file format, bleed, trim, safety, image resolution, color, fonts or large-file
uploads.
