Well-prepared artwork reduces delays and helps the finished product match the approved design. Use this checklist as a starting point, then confirm the specifications for your product.
File Format
A print-ready PDF is preferred for most projects. Export from your design application using a press-quality preset and include the requested bleed and color profile.
Resolution
For books, cards, and other close-viewed products, most raster images should be about 300 PPI at final size. Line art may require a higher resolution, while large-format work viewed from a distance may use different requirements. Do not enlarge a low-resolution image and expect new detail to appear.
Color Mode
Prepare process-color artwork in CMYK and use the color profile requested for the job. Pantone spot colors should be clearly identified. RGB artwork can shift during conversion, so review a proof before production.
Bleed and Safe Margins
A common starting point is 3mm bleed on each side, with important text and logos at least 5mm inside the trim line. Die-cut, packaging, and large-format projects may require different values.
Font Handling
Embed fonts in the PDF or convert final text to outlines when appropriate. Missing or substituted fonts are a common cause of prepress corrections.
Common Problems
- RGB images in a CMYK workflow
- Missing bleed
- Images that are too low-resolution at final size
- Missing or unembedded fonts
- Important content too close to the trim
- Unchecked overprint settings
Prepress Check
Send your artwork to our team for a prepress review. We check resolution, bleed, color mode, fonts, and overprint settings, then flag issues before plates are made or production begins.