To ensure your printed materials look their best, please follow these simple file preparation guidelines before uploading your artwork.
1. Match Your Document Size
Your artwork should be created at the same size as the final printed product.
Example:
Ordering an 18" × 24" poster? Your file should be 18" × 24".
If your file is too small and needs to be enlarged, your image may become blurry or pixelated.
2. Use High-Resolution Images
Resolution affects how sharp your printed product will look.
Recommended resolution:
- 300 DPI (dots per inch) for best print quality.
Low-resolution images may appear blurry, pixelated, and less detailed.
3. Use CMYK Color Mode
For the most accurate print colors, create your artwork in CMYK color mode. This provides the best color accuracy on printed materials.
Note: Bright neon colors and screen colors may not reproduce exactly in print.
4. Upload PDF Files
For the best results, we recommend uploading your artwork as a PDF file.
PDF files help preserve fonts, images, layouts, and print qualities.
5. Include Bleed When Needed
A bleed is extra artwork that extends beyond the final cut line. Often you can download your artwork with “crop marks and bleed”.
With Bleed
Use when images, colors, or designs go all the way to the edge. Add: 1/8" (.125") bleed on all sides.
Example: A 4" × 4" design should be submitted as 4.25" × 4.25" with bleed.
Without Bleed
If your design does not extend to the edge: Keep a minimum 1/8" (.125") white margin around all sides.
