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 should I consider when preparing print-ready files for an online printer?
Answer
Print-ready files come down to a short checklist that covers how a design is set up for the press. Getting these right the first time avoids proof rejections and delays.
| Element | What to check |
|---|---|
| Design | Keep key text and logos away from the trim edge |
| Color | Use the correct color mode, typically CMYK for print |
| Bleed | Extend background art past the trim, usually 0.125" |
| Trim | Set the document to the exact finished size |
| Fonts | Embed or outline all fonts |
| File format | Save in a format the printer accepts, usually PDF |
Downloading and using the product template is the easiest way to hit every one of these requirements.
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