Emma Davis Print Production Specialist at 4OVER4.COM
Emma is our prepress and print production voice, built from the knowledge of our production team, with over 20 years in printing.
Question
What file format and color mode should I use for printing?
Answer
A print-ready PDF is the standard format, and artwork should be built in CMYK color mode so colors reproduce accurately.
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| File format | Print-quality PDF |
| Color mode | CMYK |
| Images | CMYK, not RGB |
| Bleed | 1/8" (0.125") on each side |
If your file arrives in RGB or Pantone, it is converted to CMYK during processing, which can shift some colors. Converting to CMYK yourself before submitting gives you control over how those colors land.
| File arrives in | What happens |
|---|---|
| CMYK | Prints as built |
| RGB | Converted to CMYK; bright colors can print duller |
| Pantone | Converted to the closest CMYK mix; some shades shift |
- If a color profile is required, use SWOP (U.S. Web Coated); if your software allows it, choose no color profile.
- Bright blues, greens and oranges shift most when RGB is converted, so review colors after converting.
- Keep the same CMYK values across reorders so pieces match from batch to batch.
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