How do I prepare my design files for printing?

Preparing your design files for printing is a crucial step in ensuring that your final printed materials meet your expectations. At Print Harbour, we aim to make this process as smooth and straightforward as possible for our clients. Here are key guidelines to follow when preparing your design files for printing. 

Use the Correct File Format

Ensure your design is saved in a print-ready format. Common formats include PDF, TIFF, EPS, and high-resolution JPEG. PDF is often preferred for its ability to maintain the integrity of both vector and raster images, and it preserves the layout and fonts as intended.

Convert to CMYK Color Mode

Printers use the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key/Black) color model. Convert your design from RGB to CMYK to ensure color accuracy, as colors can appear differently on screen (which uses RGB) compared to when they are printed.

Include Bleed and Safe Margins

Bleed is the area that extends beyond the edge of your design, which is trimmed off after printing. Including bleed prevents white edges in the final print. Safe margins are equally important to ensure that no critical content is cut off. Your design should have appropriate bleed and safe margins, typically around 3mm.

High Resolution and Correct Dimensions

Ensure your images and graphics are high resolution, ideally 300 dpi (dots per inch) for quality printing. Also, check that your design’s dimensions match the size of the final printed product to avoid stretching or pixelation.

Outline Your Fonts

Convert all text to outlines to avoid font substitution issues. This step ensures that the text in your design appears exactly as intended, regardless of the fonts installed on the printer’s computer.

Proofread and Review

Before submitting your files, thoroughly proofread all text and review the design for any errors or inconsistencies. It’s often helpful to have another person review it as well.

At Print Harbour, we pride ourselves on collaborating closely with our clients to ensure their designs are print-ready and meet all necessary requirements. If you need assistance in preparing your design files for printing or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a seamless transition from digital design to tangible print.