Print-Ready Design Tutorials
A well-prepared file helps ensure your design prints exactly as intended. Watch our tutorials and follow the steps below to get your files print-ready.
Large Format Poster Setup Guide
Want your poster to print sharp, vibrant, and exactly the size you need? Here's how.
- Step 1Decide on your poster size Our largest print rolls are 42 in wide. Ensure at least one dimension of your file fits within 42 in.
- Step 2Match your file to the final size Make sure your document matches your desired print size perfectly (e.g., 36x48 in).
- Step 3Keep common sizes in mind Standard sizes include 18x24, 24x36, and 36x48 in. These are useful if you plan to frame it later.
- Step 4Export as a print-ready PDF Flattening to PDF locks in your layout. Make an editable copy first before flattening layers.
Saddle Stitch Booklet Setup Guide
A properly prepared file makes sure your pages flow in the right order and graphics don't get cut off.
- Step 1Pick your booklet size We offer 5.5x8.5 in or 8.5x11 in. Your file must match the exact size.
- Step 2Set up single pages Design in single pages, not spreads. Our machines need single pages to assemble it correctly.
- Step 3Check your page count Your total pages must be divisible by four. Add blank pages if necessary.
- Step 4Set safe margins Keep text and graphics 0.4 in from the top, bottom, and lead edge so they aren't trimmed.
- Step 5Set color to CMYK Convert your colors to CMYK to prevent dull or inaccurate prints.
- Step 6Export as a flattened PDF This locks in fonts and images. Flip through your PDF to ensure no pages are missing.
Promo Cards Setup Guide
Want your promo cards to look sharp? It all starts with getting your file set up right.
- Step 1Choose the right size Set your file to the exact dimensions (e.g., 4x6 in) before you start designing.
- Step 2Use the right resolution Set your resolution to at least 300 DPI to avoid pixelated or blurry images.
- Step 3Set colors to CMYK Change your color mode to CMYK before sending your file to prevent dull or shifted colors.
- Step 4Save your file as a PDF Saving as a PDF locks in your layout, fonts, and images. Always double-check before submitting.
Perfect Bound Book Setup Guide
Want your perfect bound book to look sharp and polished? It all begins with formatting.
- Step 1Pick your booklet size Standard sizes are 5.5x8.5 in or 8.5x11 in. Your file dimensions must match exactly.
- Step 2Set up single pages Design in single pages rather than spreads so that the pages line up on our machines.
- Step 3Check your page count We strongly recommend a minimum of 40 pages for a sturdy bind.
- Step 4Keep safe margins Leave a 2 mm lead edge at the spine on the cover, and a 0.25 in margin on all interior pages.
- Step 5Switch to CMYK Convert colors to CMYK to ensure they print accurately rather than looking dull.
- Step 6Export to a print-ready PDF Flatten to PDF to secure layouts. Check that the cover, spine, and interior pages are all in place.
