How to Prepare Files for a Print Shop: Resolution, Bleed and PDF Basics
Print shops often reject files for low resolution, missing bleed or the wrong format, even when they look fine on a screen. Printed images generally need about 300 DPI at their final size, which can be checked by dividing pixel width by print width in inches. Designs with colour running to the edge need roughly 3 mm of extra bleed, and key text should stay inside a safe zone away from the trim line. Screens use RGB colour while printers use CMYK inks, so bright colours may look duller in print, and most shops prefer a high-quality PDF. The article also suggests clear file naming, detailed order notes and taking a free proof before a full print run.
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