When preparing artwork for digital printing, ensuring it's in a print-ready PDF format is crucial for a smooth production process. But what does "print-ready PDF" actually mean?
A print-ready PDF is a single, self-contained file that includes all necessary design elements - images, fonts, and layouts - properly formatted for professional printing. Unlike sending multiple files, exporting your artwork as a high-resolution PDF ensures everything is packaged correctly and ready for press, reducing the risk of missing elements, fonts, images, or formatting errors.
No matter which graphic design software you use - Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, or Canva - you can create a PDF for print by selecting the appropriate export settings. This helps maintain colour accuracy, resolution, and layout integrity when printed.
As part of the order process, we review all files before production.
We open your file, check for any potential issues, and send back a PDF proof for approval. This extra step acts as a safeguard, ensuring your artwork prints exactly as expected.
For best printing results, always supply a high-quality, print-ready PDF to streamline the process and achieve professional, polished prints.
Before submitting your artwork, follow these essential guidelines to avoid printing issues and achieve the best possible results.
- Use CMYK, Not RGB
All artwork must be set up in four-colour process CMYK, not RGB. If submitted in RGB, we’ll convert it to CMYK, which can alter colours in the final print. Designing in CMYK from the start ensures colour accuracy.
- Set Artwork Resolution to 300ppi
Your artwork must be at least 300ppi (pixels per inch) at the final print size. Low-resolution files cannot be scaled up without losing quality, leading to blurry or pixelated prints.
- Embed Fonts and Images
Always embed all fonts and linked images within the PDF to prevent missing elements when printed.
- Maintain Safe Margins for Text and Key Elements
Keep text, logos, and other important design elements at least 5mm from the edges to prevent accidental cropping.