Question
What file format should I use for printing trading cards?
Answer
PDF is the preferred format for print. It locks your fonts, colors, and layout in place so nothing shifts on press.
- Format: export a print-ready PDF.
- Resolution: 300 DPI so images stay crisp.
- Color mode: CMYK, not RGB, for accurate ink color.
- Bleed: include 0.125 inches on all sides.
- Fonts: outline or embed them to prevent substitution errors.
Always review the digital proof before you approve the run. A two-minute check catches cropping, color, and typo issues before they get printed.
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