A design can look perfect on screen and still fail in print. Professional production needs the right size, bleed, colour setup, image quality and export settings.
The exact specification always comes from the printer, but the following checklist covers the decisions that prevent the most common problems.
1. Confirm the finished size
Start with the actual trimmed size of the item. A5, A4, DL, square and custom formats all require different document dimensions.
If the piece folds, confirm whether the panels are equal or whether one panel needs to be slightly narrower so it sits inside cleanly.
2. Add bleed
Bleed extends background images and colours beyond the final trim edge. It allows for small movement during cutting and prevents unwanted white lines.
Many UK printers request 3 mm bleed, but always use the supplied specification.
3. Keep important content inside the safe area
Text, logos and important details should sit away from the trim edge. A safe margin protects content from cutting variation and makes the layout feel more comfortable.
4. Use suitable image resolution
Images should normally be around 300 pixels per inch at the size they will be printed. Enlarging a small web image inside the artwork does not create new detail.
Check the effective resolution after cropping and scaling.
5. Use the correct colour mode
Commercial printing usually works with CMYK inks, while screens use RGB light. Bright screen colours may change when converted.
Work with an appropriate CMYK profile where the printer provides one and review important brand colours carefully.
6. Check black text and rich black
Small black text is often best set as 100% black only. Large dark backgrounds may use a rich black mix to create deeper coverage.
Do not use a heavy four-colour mix for tiny text; registration movement can make it look soft.
7. Handle fonts correctly
Export a press-ready PDF with fonts embedded, or outline text where appropriate. Keep an editable source file separately because outlined text is difficult to change later.
8. Use vector artwork for logos and line graphics
Vector files remain sharp at any size. Use SVG, EPS, AI or vector PDF source for logos, icons and simple illustrations wherever possible.
9. Check folds, perforations and finishing
Finishing can affect the design:
- Folds need correct panel order.
- Perforations need clear positions.
- Spot UV and foil need separate artwork layers.
- White ink on clear or coloured stock may need a dedicated plate.
- Binding affects margins near the spine.
10. Review overprint and transparency
Incorrect overprint settings can make objects disappear or change colour. Complex transparency should be exported using the printer’s preferred PDF standard.
11. Proof every detail
- Spelling and grammar
- Phone numbers
- Email addresses
- URLs
- Prices
- Dates
- QR codes
- Pagination
- Image quality
Print a reduced office proof where practical. Seeing the design on paper often reveals hierarchy or spacing issues that were easy to miss on screen.
12. Export the right PDF
Common professional formats include PDF/X standards, but the correct choice depends on the printer and workflow. Use their job options or specification rather than a generic “high quality” preset.
What to send the printer
- Press-ready PDF
- Clear job name and quantity
- Finished size
- Stock and finish
- Colour requirements
- Delivery details
- Any special instructions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need crop marks?
Some printers want them and others do not. Follow the printer’s specification.
Can I send a Canva PDF?
Sometimes, but check bleed, colour, image quality and font handling. For complex commercial work, professional artwork software gives more control.
Why does the printed colour look different from my screen?
Screens emit RGB light and vary in calibration. Print uses inks, paper and lighting conditions. Accurate colour work requires appropriate profiles and proofing.
Explore professional print design or request print-ready artwork.
