Print-ready file guide
The most common questions and settings — so your file is ready for the first proof.
1. Colors — CMYK, not RGB
Monitors work in RGB, but the printing press works in CMYK. Before submitting, convert every object in your file to CMYK (Illustrator: File → Document Color Mode → CMYK; InDesign already works in CMYK). For spot colors, use the Pantone Coated or Uncoated scale.
2. Bleed and safety margin
Leave a 3 mm bleed on every edge — this prevents white gaps when the piece is cut or die-cut. Keep important content (text, logos) at least 4–5 mm inside the cut line, within the safety margin.
3. Resolution
Use images at 300 DPI at final size. For large posters and banners, 150–200 DPI is sufficient, since they are viewed from a greater distance.
4. Fonts
When exporting to PDF, embed all fonts. In Illustrator, convert text to outlines (Create Outlines) — this avoids text appearing differently if a font is missing.
5. Marking folds, gluing and die-cutting
If you need a folded, glued or die-cut piece, include a separate PDF page or layer with dotted lines marking the fold location and direction. For more complex die shapes, coordinate with our production manager.
6. File formats
We prefer PDF/X-1a or PDF/X-4 files. We also accept .ai, .indd, .psd and .tif files, but these must be submitted together with linked images and the fonts used.