Of all the posts we’ve shared on here, the tutorials are a favorite with our customers. One of the topics we get the most questions about is how to prepare your files for the printer.

If you have enjoyed using our tutorials, then you’ll want to bookmark this post. We’ve rounded up all our prepress articles and shared them in a format that makes it easy for you to navigate them.

The checklist below will carry you through each aspect of preparing your files and provides a link to the tutorial that corresponds with that topic. Don’t forget to swing by our Resource Library for a FREE printable version of this checklist to keep at your desk!

IMAGES

Prepress 101: How to Prepare Images for Print
 300 DPI/PPI resolution
 Convert images to CMYK
 Images are large enough to avoid pixilation
 Vector files are best for logos, icons, and graphics
 Images/graphics packaged with file or embedded

FONTS

 Proofread your work!
 Package fonts with the file OR convert text to outlines
 Check font sizes, styles, & justification for readability
 Check your character thickness - thin fonts don't print well!

COLORS

Prepress 101: Creating Color Swatches for Print
 Color swatches are CMYK (not RGB)
 If Pantones are used, the color number is correct
 All blacks are set to Black (0, 0, 0, 100%) not Registration (100%, 100%, 100%, 100%)

DOCUMENT

Prepress 101: Your Best Guide for Creating Print-Ready Files
 0.125 or 1/8" bleed
 0.5 - 1" margins
 Document size is correct
 Settings are correct for any cuts & folds, or perforation

PRINT FILES

Prepress 101: Your Best Guide for Creating Print-Ready Files
 Submit a high-res PDF or a document package
 FOR PDF: Don't forget to export the proper bleed & trim settings
 FOR PACKAGED FILE: All fonts & images included in the package!

MISC.

Prepress 101: How to Set Up Print Files for Metallic or White Ink
Prepress 101: Arranging Printer Spreads for Saddle Stitch Booklets
 Settings are correct for any special inks (metallic gold, silver, or white)
 If you are printing a saddle stitch booklet, the spreads are set up properly