Preparing a print file may seem like a simple task, but in practice it is easy to make mistakes that can spoil the final result. The print file format is of great importance, and incorrect settings can lead to problems with the quality, colors or size of the project. What are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them? Let’s check them out!
1. Print file format – why is it so important?
A poorly prepared file means delays, additional costs and disappointment with the end result. The format of the print file determines in what form the file goes to the printer and how it will be reproduced on paper or other material.
The most commonly used formats are PDF, TIFF and EPS. PDF is the most universal and compatible with most printing systems. TIFF guarantees the highest image quality, while EPS is great for vector graphics and logos. Choosing the right format is the key to getting the perfect print.
2. Inappropriate resolution – pixels instead of sharp printing
One of the most common mistakes is using too low a resolution. Many people prepare designs at standard screen resolution (72 dpi), which results in smudged print. For offset and digital printing, a minimum of 300 dpi is recommended, and for large formats such as banners or posters, it’s worth using 150-200 dpi, depending on viewing distance. It is also important not to scale small images up. Enlarging low-quality files does not improve their appearance, but only exacerbates the problem. Improper resolution is one of the main reasons why a printer rejects a file, so it’s worth taking care of it at the design stage.
3. No bleeds – a problem when cutting
Bleeds are areas of the design that extend beyond the target format and are trimmed after printing. Their absence can result in white edges around the design, which looks unsightly.
How to set the bleeds?
- Place important text and logos in a safe zone, about 5 mm from the cutting edge.
- The standard value is 3-5 mm on each side of the design.
- Graphic elements and background should extend beyond the cut line.
Lack of bleeds is one of the most frequently reported errors in files. If you want to avoid unpleasant surprises, always add them to your project!
4. Wrong color model – RGB instead of CMYK
Another common mistake is to design in RGB mode, which is the standard for screens but not suitable for printing. As a result, the colors on the printout may look completely different from those on the monitor. To avoid this, it is a good idea to work from the beginning in CMYK mode, which is the standard for printing. Also, do not rely on the colors you see on the screen. As monitors often distort colors, and some bright RGB hues do not have their counterparts in CMYK. It’s better to avoid very intense colors and use a color sampler that gives a real preview of the final result. If the RGB to CMYK conversion is left to the very end, there is a high risk that the colors will lose their intensity and not look the way we intended.
5. Using the wrong fonts – text problems
Not everyone realizes that the printer may not have the fonts used in the design. If they are not embedded in the file or converted to curves, they may be converted to default typography, which will completely change the look of the design.
How to avoid this mistake?
- In PDF files, embed all fonts to avoid problems with missing fonts.
- In vector files (AI, EPS, CDR), convert text to curves.
- Avoid small and very thin fonts – they can become unreadable when printed.
Lack of proper text preparation can spoil the whole project, so it is better to take care of it earlier than to correct mistakes later.
6. Print file format – how to avoid problems?
In conclusion, the format of the print file is a key aspect that affects the quality of the final result. To avoid problems, it is a good idea to choose appropriate file formats, such as PDF, TIFF or EPS. It is equally important to maintain a high resolution (at least 300 dpi for standard designs) and to add bleeds to prevent unsightly white edges after cropping. Working in CMYK mode instead of RGB avoids unforeseen color changes, and embedding fonts ensures that text is displayed correctly. If these rules are followed, the risk of printing errors will be minimized, and the final design will look exactly as you expect it to.
Do you have questions? Contact us – we will be happy to help you prepare an error-free file!