Preparing Print Files Correctly: The Pre-Print Checklist

Why Print Files Fail So Often

Most delays don't happen on the press, but in the file. Setting up the following points cleanly from the start saves a round of revisions on every project.

1. Bleed and Safety Margin

Add a 3 mm bleed on all sides and keep text at least 5 mm away from the edge. This ensures nothing gets trimmed off during cutting.

2. Color Space

The standard for printing is CMYK, not RGB. Use spot colors only if they are explicitly calculated in the quote.

3. Resolution

• Images: 300 dpi at final size
• Large format viewed from a distance: 150 dpi is often sufficient
• Line art: 600 to 1200 dpi

4. Fonts and Transparencies

Embed fonts or convert them to outlines. Check transparencies before exporting so that no hard edges occur.

5. Export

The safest choice is a PDF/X-4 with embedded profiles. Single pages instead of spreads, no crop marks within the document trim size.

In short: 3 mm bleed, CMYK, 300 dpi, fonts embedded, PDF/X-4.

Unsure about a file? Simply send it along with your inquiry, and we will check it before production.