How to prepare a file for print

Which file format should I send?

Ideally a press-quality PDF in CMYK. We also accept PSD and CDR, as well as AI, JPG, PNG, TIFF and ZIP. The form takes up to 4 MB; for larger files paste a link (WeTransfer, Google Drive) or send them by e-mail.

What is bleed and how much do I need?

Bleed is the part of the background that runs past the edge and is trimmed off after printing. If the background is coloured or an image runs to the very edge, add 3 mm of bleed on every side, so no white edges are left after cutting.

How far from the edge should text and logos be?

At least 5 mm from the trim edge. This is the safe zone: all text and important elements should sit inside it, because anything too close to the edge can get cut off.

Why should colours be in CMYK?

We print in CMYK, so prepare the file in CMYK too. Colours set up in RGB, for screens, can look different in print than on your monitor.

What resolution should images have?

The optimum is 300 dpi (dots per inch) at the size the image is printed. Images downloaded from the internet often have too low a resolution and come out blurry in print.

What should I do with fonts?

Convert all fonts to curves (outlines). That way the text will not change if our computer does not have the same font.

Which program should I use?

We recommend Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW or Adobe InDesign. We also support Canva: when you save the PDF, choose PDF Print.

What if I have no print-ready file?

We will make it. Send the text, logo and photos, and we will send you a proof for approval before printing. Prepress is charged at 30 € per hour; there is more on the Design and prepress page.

What if something is wrong with my file?

We check every file before printing. If something needs fixing, we will contact you before printing. For technical help, write to xprint.tisak@gmail.com.