File Preparation Checklist

Document size matches final print size

Set up your document at 100% scale. For very large prints, you can design at 50% or 25% scale at proportionally higher resolution.

Bleed added on all sides (0.25" minimum)

Extend backgrounds and images beyond the trim line to prevent white edges.

Safe zone established (0.25" inside trim)

Keep important text and logos inside the safe zone to avoid getting cut off.

Correct orientation (portrait/landscape)

Double-check orientation matches your intended display.

Document set to CMYK color mode

RGB colors will shift when converted. Design in CMYK from the start for accurate color.

Black text set to 100% K only

Rich black (C60 M40 Y40 K100) can cause registration issues on small text.

No RGB images embedded

Convert all placed images to CMYK before embedding.

Pantone colors specified (if applicable)

For brand-critical colors, provide Pantone references.

All fonts outlined/converted to curves

This prevents font substitution if we don't have your exact font.

Minimum font size: 6pt for print, larger for distance viewing

For signs viewed from 10+ feet, use at least 1" tall letters.

No font styles applied via software

Use actual bold/italic font files rather than applying styles.

Resolution: 150+ DPI at final size

Low-resolution images will appear pixelated.

All images embedded, not linked

Linked images may not transfer correctly.

Vector graphics used where possible

Logos and text should be vector for crisp output at any size.

No compression artifacts visible

Avoid heavily compressed JPEGs.

Export as PDF/X-1a or high-quality PDF

This format preserves colors and fonts correctly.

Include crop marks and bleed in export

Helps us identify trim lines.

Flatten transparency if using older software

Prevents transparency-related printing issues.

Name file clearly with project details

Example: CompanyName_Banner_36x48_Final.pdf