How do I prepare print files correctly?
Quick answer
Prepare artwork at the agreed finished dimensions and follow Craftarea’s requested colour, resolution, bleed and font settings. Vector files can suit logos and cut paths; raster images need enough detail at print size. A print-ready PDF is often useful, but the required export settings depend on the production workflow. Review the proof before approving the order.
More detail
Match the file to the product
For business cards, check the finished dimensions, printed sides and small-text legibility. For stickers, specify the shape, application surface and whether a separate cutting contour is needed. For a banner, provide the finished size, installation setting and intended fixing or edge finishing. These products do not always need the same export settings.
Check the version you will send
- Compare the document size with the order dimensions. If the artwork is scaled, state the scale in writing.
- Open the exported file and check Georgian and English characters, telephone numbers, addresses, dates and the QR code destination.
- Check the distance between important content and trim or fold lines against the agreed template. Identify cutting contours and guide lines as requested for production.
- For multiple pages, names or designs, state their order and the quantity of each version.
What to send with a quote request
Include the product, dimensions, quantity, preferred material, artwork and required receipt date. State whether you need layout preparation or a check of an existing file. Agree production and delivery times separately. Check the text and layout before approving the final proof; discuss a sample when colour or material is critical. Keep the editable original and approved version with clear filenames.
Steps
- 1
Colour settings
Ask which colour profile and PDF settings the production workflow needs. Screen RGB and printed colour can differ; use a suitable proof for critical brand colours.
- 2
Image detail
Check image resolution at the final size and viewing distance. Around 300 ppi can be appropriate for detailed small print, while large graphics may use different requirements; follow the provider’s specification.
- 3
Bleed and margins
Confirm the required bleed and safe margin for the product and finishing. A 3 mm bleed is a common small-print example, but it is not the requirement for every item.
- 4
Fonts
Embed fonts or convert text to outlines as requested. Keep an editable original and check spelling, missing characters and layout in the exported file.
- 5
File format
Confirm whether PDF, AI, EPS or another format is accepted. Use the requested PDF/X version or export preset, include required profiles and review the finished-size proof.
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Need help?
Send your brief, artwork and deadline so the team can discuss the next steps, price and timing for your project.