When you order print online, you'll often see the phrase "print-ready artwork". It simply means a file that's set up so it prints correctly first time. Here's what that involves, in plain English.
1. The right size, plus bleed
Bleed is extra image or background that extends past the edge of your design, usually 3mm on each side. When your print is trimmed, the bleed makes sure there are no thin white lines at the edges. If your design has colour or images that go to the edge, it needs bleed.
2. Keep important things in the safe area
Keep text, logos and anything important at least 3–5mm inside the trim line. Trimming isn't microscopically exact, and you don't want your phone number clipped off.
3. High resolution images
Images should be around 300dpi at the size they'll be printed. Images taken from websites or social media are usually too low resolution and will look blurry or pixelated. Large-format items such as banners and signs are viewed from further away, so they can be a little lower, but we'll advise.
4. CMYK colour
Printers use four inks: cyan, magenta, yellow and black (CMYK). Screens use RGB light. Bright RGB colours, especially vivid greens and blues, can look duller in print. Setting your artwork up in CMYK gives you a more accurate idea of the final result. Read more in CMYK vs RGB explained.
5. Fonts and file types
The best format is a high-resolution PDF with fonts embedded or converted to outlines. Vector files (AI, EPS, SVG) are great for logos and signage. We also accept PNG, JPG and TIFF files if they're high enough resolution.
6. Check, check and check again
Proofread spelling, phone numbers, email addresses, prices and dates. It's the most common mistake we see, and the most expensive to fix after printing.
Uploading your artwork
On every product page you'll find an Upload Your Artwork box (files up to 20MB) and a space for branding instructions. Bigger file? Email it to us after ordering. We then send a digital proof before anything is printed.
Not sure? We'll help
If your file isn't quite right, we'll let you know. If you'd rather leave it to us, add our Design Service.
Frequently asked questions
What does print-ready mean?
It means the file is the correct size with bleed, uses high-resolution images and CMYK colour, and is supplied as a print-quality PDF or vector file.
What is bleed in printing?
Bleed is extra artwork, usually 3mm, extending beyond the trim edge so there are no white edges after cutting.
Ready to upload?
Find your product in our online store or call 07769 200277 with any questions.
Related: Paper weights explained · How to order from us