A considered file. A cleaner finish.
Good print begins with good artwork. Use this INKVIS guide to prepare a clean PDF, with the right bleed, colour and image quality for production.
Bleed
Extend background colours and images beyond the trim edge. A common setup is 0.125 in / 3 mm bleed on each side unless your quote specifies otherwise.
Safe Area
Keep important text and logos comfortably inside the trim line so normal cutting tolerance does not affect them.
Colour
CMYK is preferred for process printing. Pantone / spot colours should be clearly identified if the project requires them.
Images
Use high-resolution images at final size. Around 300 ppi is a common target for close-viewed commercial print.
Fonts
Embed fonts in the exported PDF. If supplying native artwork, package fonts or convert text appropriately where required.
Preferred PDF
A production-ready PDF with bleed is usually the cleanest handoff. Avoid unnecessary printer marks unless requested.
Quick preflight checklist.
Different print processes may require different specifications, so the confirmed quote or production instruction always takes priority.
Does every file need bleed?
If artwork reaches the trimmed edge, yes. If the design intentionally has a white margin, bleed may not be necessary. When in doubt, include it.
Can I send Canva or Microsoft Office files?
Usually the safest route is to export a high-quality PDF first. We can review the file and flag obvious production concerns.
Can you fix my artwork?
Minor prepress adjustments may be possible. Larger design changes, recreation or layout work should be identified before production and may be quoted separately.
What if I do not know any of these terms?
No problem. Send what you have with the quote request and explain what you want the finished piece to do. We can help translate that into production specs.