Professional Standards
Print Guidelines
Follow these guidelines to ensure your designs print perfectly. We've made it simple—get your files right the first time and avoid delays or unexpected results.
Essential Print Guidelines
These six fundamentals ensure professional-quality prints every time. Follow them and your project will look exactly as intended.
Bleed
Extend your design 3mm beyond the trim edge on all sides.
- Standard bleed: 3mm (0.125 inches) on all edges
- Prevents white edges if cutting is slightly off-center
- Extend background colors and images into the bleed area
- Keep important content away from the bleed zone
Safe Zone / Margins
Keep all important text and graphics at least 3mm from the trim edge.
- Minimum safe zone: 3mm from trim edge
- Recommended safe zone: 5mm for critical elements
- Prevents content from being cut off during trimming
- Extra important for text, logos, and QR codes
Color Mode
Always use CMYK color mode for print, never RGB.
- CMYK for all print projects (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black)
- RGB is for screens only and will be converted automatically
- Colors may shift when converting RGB to CMYK
- Use Pantone/spot colors for exact brand matching
- Request a color proof if color accuracy is critical
Resolution
Minimum 300 DPI for sharp, professional prints.
- 300 DPI minimum for photos and images
- 1200 DPI for line art and logos
- Higher resolution = sharper details
- Low-resolution images appear pixelated when printed
- Check resolution at actual print size, not scaled
File Formats
PDF is preferred. We also accept AI, EPS, and high-res images.
- PDF (preferred): Press-quality, embedded fonts, CMYK
- Adobe Illustrator (.AI) with outlined fonts
- EPS with embedded fonts and linked images
- High-res TIFF or PNG (300 DPI+) for simple designs
- InDesign: Export as PDF or package the project
Fonts
Outline all fonts or embed them in your PDF.
- Convert text to outlines/paths before submitting
- Or embed all fonts in your PDF export
- Prevents font substitution issues
- Minimum readable font size: 6pt
- Sans-serif fonts work better for small text
Standard Paper Sizes
Common sizes we print daily. Custom sizes available on request—just ask!
| Paper Size | Dimensions | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| A4 | 210 × 297 mm | Flyers, brochures, letterheads |
| A5 | 148 × 210 mm | Postcards, small flyers, notepads |
| A6 | 105 × 148 mm | Postcards, invitations, loyalty cards |
| DL | 99 × 210 mm | Envelopes, slim flyers, rack cards |
| Business Card | 85 × 55 mm | Standard business cards |
| A3 | 297 × 420 mm | Posters, large flyers, certificates |
Remember to add bleed!
Final file size = finished size + 6mm (3mm bleed on each side). Example: A4 with bleed = 216 × 303 mm.
Finishing Options
Add a professional touch with our premium finishing services. Enhance durability, appearance, and perceived value.
Matt Lamination
Non-reflective, elegant finish. Reduces glare and fingerprints.
Best for: Business cards, brochures, menus
Gloss Lamination
Shiny, vibrant finish. Makes colors pop and adds protection.
Best for: Flyers, posters, marketing materials
Spot UV
Raised gloss coating on specific areas for premium look.
Best for: Business cards, luxury packaging, covers
Embossing
Raised design creates tactile, premium effect.
Best for: Invitations, business cards, certificates
Foil Stamping
Metallic finish (gold, silver, holographic) for elegant touch.
Best for: Business cards, wedding invitations, certificates
Quick Tips for Perfect Prints
Review colors, text, and layout before final printing—mistakes are costly.
For large runs, order one sample to check paper quality and color accuracy.
Download our print-ready templates with correct bleed and margins already set.
Not sure about sizes, paper, or finishes? Call us—we're happy to advise.
Need help with your print files?
Our team offers free file checking and can help fix common issues before printing.