File Guidelines
Follow these guidelines to ensure the best print quality for your order.
Accepted File Formats
Preferred Formats
- PDF - Best for print-ready files
- AI - Adobe Illustrator native
- EPS - Vector format
- PSD - Adobe Photoshop (flattened)
Also Accepted
- JPG/JPEG - High quality, 300 DPI
- PNG - High quality, 300 DPI
- TIFF - Uncompressed, 300 DPI
Resolution & Size
Resolution
All raster images (photos, JPGs, PNGs) should be at least 300 DPI at the final print size. Lower resolution may result in blurry or pixelated prints.
Document Size
Set your document to the exact size of the finished product. Include bleed area if your design extends to the edge.
Example: 4" x 6" Postcard
- Final size: 4" x 6"
- With bleed: 4.25" x 6.25"
- Safe area: 3.75" x 5.75"
Bleed & Safe Area
What is Bleed?
Bleed is extra image area that extends beyond the trim line. This ensures no white edges appear if there's slight movement during cutting.
Bleed Requirements
- Add 0.125" (1/8 inch) bleed on all sides
- Extend backgrounds, images, and colors to the bleed edge
- Bleed applies when design reaches the edge of the product
Safe Area
Keep important text and logos at least 0.125" (1/8 inch) from the trim edge. Content too close to the edge may be cut off.
Color Mode
Use CMYK Color Mode
All files should be in CMYK color mode for accurate color reproduction. RGB files will be converted to CMYK, which may cause color shifts.
Rich Black
For large black areas, use rich black (C:60 M:40 Y:40 K:100) instead of pure black (K:100) for deeper, more saturated blacks.
Note: Colors on your screen may appear different when printed. Monitor colors are RGB while printing uses CMYK inks.
Common Issues to Avoid
- ✕Low resolution images (under 300 DPI)
- ✕RGB color mode instead of CMYK
- ✕No bleed when design extends to edge
- ✕Text too close to trim edge
- ✕Fonts not outlined or embedded
- ✕Wrong document dimensions
- ✕Spelling and grammar errors
Templates
We provide free templates for all our products with proper dimensions, bleed, and safe areas marked. Templates are available in multiple formats:
- Adobe Illustrator (.ai)
- Adobe Photoshop (.psd)
Download templates from the product page when placing your order.
Need Design Help?
If you need assistance preparing your files or want us to design for you, we offer professional design services.