Why Following These Guidelines Matters

✅ Faster turnaround time
✅ No surprise design charges
✅ Professional-quality prints without unexpected issues

If your artwork does not meet these requirements, we may need to modify it, which could result in additional costs. If you have questions, we’re happy to help!

✅ Print-Ready Artwork Checklist

1. File Format: Use High-Resolution, Industry-Standard Formats

✔ Preferred formats: PDF, AI, EPS, PSD, or High-Resolution JPG/PNG
✔ Avoid Word, PowerPoint, or low-resolution screenshots
✔ Convert text to outlines (vectors) to prevent font issues

2. Resolution: Keep It High for Crisp Prints

✔ Minimum 300 DPI (dots per inch) for high-quality printing
✔ Web images (typically 72 DPI) will appear blurry when printed
✔ Do not enlarge low-resolution images, as it reduces quality

3. Color Mode: Use CMYK, Not RGB

✔ Convert files to CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black)
✔ RGB files (used for screens) may print with unexpected colors
✔ If unsure, request a color proof before final printing

4. Bleeds & Safe Zones: Avoid Cutting Issues

✔ Add 0.125" (1/8 inch) bleed on all sides for designs that go to the edge
✔ Keep important text/images 0.25" inside from the trim line to avoid being cut off
✔ Example: A standard 8.5" x 11" document with bleeds should be sized at 8.75" x 11.25"

5. Fonts: Convert to Outlines or Embed

✔ Convert fonts to outlines (vector format) in Illustrator or InDesign
✔ If using Photoshop, rasterize text layers
✔ If sending a PDF, embed all fonts to ensure consistency

6. Transparency & Layers: Flatten for Compatibility

✔ Flatten all layers, transparencies, and effects to avoid printing errors
✔ Ensure no hidden objects remain in your design

7. Borders & Edges: Keep Them Balanced

✔ Avoid thin borders near the edge, as they may appear uneven when trimmed
✔ Use at least 0.25" margins inside the trim line

8. Proofing & Final Checks

✔ Zoom in and check for blurry elements before sending
✔ Spell-check all text; we print exactly what is provided
✔ Send the final print-ready file, not an editable working file