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Required
Required
Required
Required
Required
Important
Required
Important
Required
Recommended
Required
Important
Important
File Setup
Print File Checklist
Run through this list before you submit artwork. Most problems — blurry output, clipped text, color shifts — are preventable if caught at the file stage. The items marked Required will affect print quality or require a file correction before we can proceed.
Document & Size
Document size matches the final trim size
Set your canvas to the exact finished dimensions of the product — 3.5″×2″ for a business card, 8.5″×11″ for a flyer, etc. Don't design at a scaled-down size and expect us to scale up.
Bleed added on all sides (if design reaches the edge)
Add ⅛″ (0.125″) bleed on each side. Your canvas should be 0.25″ wider and taller than the finished size. Only required if color or imagery extends to the trim edge. What is bleed? →
Safe zone respected — text at least ⅛″ inside the trim edge
Keep all text, logos, and important content at least ⅛″ (3mm) inside the final trim line. Anything closer risks being cut off during trimming.
Images & Resolution
Images are 300 DPI at the final print size
Check in Photoshop: Image → Image Size → Resolution (with Resample unchecked). For large-format banners, 100–150 DPI at actual size is acceptable. DPI guide →
Images are originals — not screenshots or web downloads
Images downloaded from websites are typically 72 DPI and will print blurry. Use original high-res files from a camera, stock library, or your designer. Screenshots are never suitable for print.
Images are not scaled up beyond their original resolution
Enlarging a small image in your design software doesn't add pixels — it just stretches the existing ones. If you placed a 500px image in a 5″ space, its effective resolution is 100 DPI. Use larger source images instead.
Color
Color mode is CMYK (not RGB)
RGB is for screens. Print uses CMYK inks. Converting at output can shift colors — particularly vivid blues, bright greens, and neon tones. Set your document to CMYK before you design, not after.
Black text uses 100% K only (not rich black)
For small text, use pure black (C0 M0 Y0 K100). "Rich black" (C60 M40 Y40 K100) can cause misregistration on fine text. Rich black is fine for large headlines or full-bleed dark backgrounds.
Fonts & Text
Fonts are outlined or embedded in the PDF
In Illustrator: Type → Create Outlines. In InDesign or when exporting PDF: ensure "Embed all fonts" is checked. Missing fonts cause text to reflow or display as the wrong typeface on a different system.
Minimum text size is legible at print resolution
Small print (6–7pt) can look fine on screen but be difficult to read in print — especially on matte or uncoated stock. If you have fine print, check that it's readable in a printed proof before a large run.
File Format & Export
File exported as PDF (preferred) or high-res JPG/PNG
PDF preserves fonts, colors, and bleed in a single portable file. Export as "PDF Print" or "PDF/X-1a". High-res JPG or PNG also accepted. Word docs, PowerPoint, and low-res web images are not suitable. File format guide →
Bleed marks included in PDF export (if using bleed)
When exporting from Illustrator or InDesign, check "Use Document Bleed Settings" in the Marks and Bleed section. In Canva, enable "Crop marks and bleed" in the download dialog.
Front and back are separate files or pages (for double-sided prints)
Label each file or page clearly (Front / Back). Don't place front and back side by side on the same canvas as a single-page file — they need to be on separate pages or sent as separate files.
When in doubt, request a proof. A proof lets you see exactly how your file will print before the full run. If color accuracy or fine detail matters, always proof first. Ask us about proof options when you place your order.
Ready to submit, or want a free file check first?