Preparing files

Bleed, trim and safe zone

Trim is the finished size after cutting. For standard trimmed print, extend backgrounds and edge-to-edge images 0.125 inches beyond each trim edge for bleed. That adds 0.25 inches to the overall width and height.

Keep text, logos and other essential details at least 0.125 inches inside the trim line. Keep them clear of folds, holes and cutouts too. Thin borders can look uneven when the cut shifts slightly.

Use the product-specific layout when one is provided, especially for folded, bound or shaped products. Remove visible template guides from the exported artwork; do not add crop marks inside the print area.

Size and resolution

Build the artwork at its intended print size. Aim for 300 dpi at that size for standard print products. Enlarging a small web image does not add detail.

Some large format products use 150 dpi at final size; follow the file setup on the product page. Check placed images as well as the document resolution.

Color and transparency

Use CMYK for standard printed artwork unless the product instructions call for another color mode. Embroidery and some apparel workflows use RGB artwork instead.

Screens display light while paper reflects it, so a screen preview is not an exact color match. Paper, coating and finish also affect the result. Ask us before ordering if a brand color is critical.

Check transparency, shadows and overprint settings before exporting. Flatten effects where needed to preserve the intended appearance, and inspect the final exported file.

Fonts and linked images

Embed fonts in your PDF or convert text to outlines in your design application. Include all placed images in the export. Keep an editable copy for future changes.

Read the exported file at actual size. Check small type, punctuation, phone numbers, addresses, QR codes and spelling; a proof approval includes your approval of the content.

Accepted upload file types

Upload PDF, PNG, JPG/JPEG or TIF/TIFF. A print-ready PDF is a good choice for sharp text and multipage work. Export native design documents to one of these formats before uploading.

The current per-file upload limit is 50 MiB. If your file is larger, contact us for help choosing a transfer method without reducing print quality.

Sides, folds and proof approval

Match the horizontal or vertical orientation to your order. Label front, back, inside and outside files clearly. For folded work, make a paper mockup to check that each panel reads the right way up.

You can upload artwork with your order or after checkout from your account. Review and approve the proof before printing. Check every side and page, including blank panels and specialty finishes.

• Use a product checklist →
• Specialty finish instructions →