PRINT GUIDELINES

We require images to have a minimum resolution of 300 DPI at the final printed size. This helps ensure sharp, detailed printing, provided the original image is high quality and has not been enlarged beyond its intended dimensions.

Simply changing a low-resolution image to 300 DPI in your design software will not improve its quality or restore missing detail. Instead, use a higher-resolution original or reduce the image’s printed size.

Please convert all text to outlines before submitting your files. If your text must remain editable, include all fonts used in the document. This helps prevent font substitutions that could change the appearance or layout of your text.

If fonts are supplied separately, please review your proof carefully to confirm that they loaded and displayed correctly.

We require all files to be submitted in CMYK color mode. Files submitted in RGB or containing unsupported Pantone or spot colors will be converted to CMYK during preflight.

Because CMYK has a different color range than RGB and Pantone, some colors—especially bright or highly saturated colors—may print differently than they appear on screen. 

If an exact Pantone match is required, please contact us before submitting your files.

Any background, image, or color intended to extend to the finished edge must include a 0.125″ (⅛″) bleed on all four sides. This prevents unwanted white edges after trimming.

For example, artwork for a finished 4″ × 6″ postcard should be submitted at 4.25″ × 6.25″.

Keep all text, logos, and other important elements at least 0.1875″ (3⁄16″) inside the final trim line to prevent them from being cut off.

If your file doesn’t include bleed, don’t worry! Contact one of our print specialists and we’ll help you determine the best solution.

We prefer print-ready PDF files and also accept the following formats: EPS, AI, PSD, TIFF, JPG, and PNG.

Files may be created using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Canva, CorelDRAW, QuarkXPress, or similar design software. 

If you are unsure which format to provide, export your artwork as a high-quality, print-ready PDF to help preserve its layout, fonts, and image quality.

Illustrator, CorelDRAW, and EPS files: Convert all text to outlines and embed all linked images.

InDesign and QuarkXPress files: Export a print-ready PDF or package the document with all fonts and linked images.

Photoshop files: Submit a flattened copy in CMYK color mode at 300 PPI and the final printing size.

Canva files: Select Share → Download → PDF Print. Enable bleed, and select CMYK if that option is available. Confirm that your design is set to the correct finished size before downloading.

Documents should be created at the product’s final trim size. Large-format artwork may be submitted at a proportional scale, but the scale must be clearly indicated. The dimensions below do not include bleed.

Common business card sizes:

3.5″ × 2″

2″ × 2″

2.5″ × 2.5″

Common catalog and booklet sizes (finished closed size):

5.5″ × 8.5″

8.5″ × 11″

11″ × 17″

Common postcard sizes:

4″ × 6″

5″ × 7″

5.5″ × 8.5″

Common brochure sizes (flat size before folding):

8.5″ × 11″

8.5″ × 14″

11″ × 17″

Additional and custom sizes are available. Please contact one of our print specialists for assistance.