Artwork Guidelines

ARTWORK GUIDELINES
Prepare Your Files for the Best Print Results

To ensure your project prints exactly as expected, please follow the guidelines below before submitting your artwork.
Important: All files are printed as submitted. Please review carefully before placing your order.

QUICK CHECKLIST

Before uploading your file, confirm the following:

• Text is clear, legible, and free of errors
• Fonts are embedded or outlined
• Images are high resolution (300 DPI)
• File size matches your selected product (including bleed)
• Colors are set to CMYK

BLEED & SAFE ZONE

Proper spacing ensures your design prints cleanly without white edges or cut-off text.

Bleed
If your design extends to the edge of the page, include a 0.125” (1/8”) bleed on all sides.

Example:

• Final size: 3.5" x 2"
• With bleed: 3.75" x 2.25"

Safe Zone
Keep all important text and graphics at least 0.25”–0.375” inside the trim edge.

COLOR SETTINGS

For the most accurate print results:

• Use CMYK color mode whenever possible
• RGB files may print differently than expected
• Bright colors (especially blues, greens, and purples) may appear less vibrant
• Pantone colors should be converted to CMYK unless discussed in advance

IMAGE QUALITY

High-quality images are essential for professional results:

• Recommended resolution: 300 DPI
• Avoid screenshots or web images
• Always review your file at 100% size before submitting

Note: For large format prints, lower resolution may be acceptable due to viewing distance.

FILE FORMATS

We recommend submitting:

• PDF (preferred format)
• AI, EPS, PSD, TIFF, PNG (high resolution)

Tip: If submitting native files, include all fonts and linked images to avoid missing elements.

PROOFING

Before final production:

• Review your digital proof carefully
• Check layout, spelling, and placement
• Understand that colors may vary slightly between screen and print

Note: Once your order is submitted, files are considered approved and will be printed as-is.

ARTWORK GUIDELINES BY PROGRAM

Adobe Illustrator

• Save files as PDF
• Embed all images
• Convert fonts to outlines

Adobe InDesign

• Include a high-resolution PDF export
• Provide INDD and IDML files
• Package all fonts and images

Adobe Photoshop

• Set resolution to 300 DPI at final size
• Save as PDF with fonts embedded or outlined

Canva

Set Up Your Design

• Design at the correct final size
• Add 0.125” bleed if your design goes to the edge
• Keep all important content inside a safe margin (at least 0.25”)

Example:

• Final size: 8.5" x 11"
• Design size with bleed: 8.75" x 11.25"

Best Practices

• Use high-resolution images (300 DPI)
• Avoid stretching or enlarging images
• Keep text away from edges
• Double-check spelling and layout

Export Settings (Required)

• File Type: PDF Print
• Enable crop marks and bleed
• Quality: High

Color Note: Canva files are in RGB, which may result in slight color shifts when printed in CMYK. Colors may appear darker or less vibrant than on screen.

Final Checklist for Canva Files:

• File exported as PDF Print
• Bleed included (if needed)
• Text within the safe zone
• Images are high resolution
• Design proofread

Microsoft Files (Word, PowerPoint, etc.)

• Export a high-resolution PDF
• Include all fonts and images

Note: Microsoft files can be unstable for print. Review your proof carefully.

NEED HELP?
Not sure if your file is print-ready?
Our team can review your artwork before printing to prevent delays and ensure the best possible result.
Contact us anytime - we’re here to help.