What file formats and quality do I need for text-heavy designs?

For text-heavy artwork, a print-quality PDF with vector (live or outlined) type is far better than a flattened JPEG. Vector text stays razor-sharp at any size, while rasterized text can look faint or pixelated once it is printed.

• Save as PDF and keep type as vector rather than flattening it into an image.
• Outline fonts or embed them so nothing substitutes during processing.
• Avoid very thin or light-weight strokes for small text, since fine lines can drop out on press.
• Keep body copy at a readable weight and size so it holds up in print.

A vector PDF is the most dependable way to keep dense text crisp and legible on the finished piece.