File requirements for perfect print

Follow these guidelines for sharp, reliable and print-ready files. Not sure? We check your file for free during checkout.

Quick summary

PDF is recommended for print. Prefer PDF/X-1a or PDF/X-4 and preserve vectors, fonts and spot colours.

JPG is suitable for photos and images. Use high quality and avoid heavy compression.

PNG works well for transparency, logos and sharp edges. Make sure the resolution is high enough.

300 DPI is optimal for text, logos and sharp images.

150-200 DPI can be acceptable for large formats because they are viewed from farther away.

Below 150 DPI prints can look blurry or pixelated.

CMYK is standard for many print products and gives more predictable print colours.

RGB is suitable for photo, textile and some print techniques. We convert files where needed.

Colours can differ slightly between screen and print because screens use light and prints use ink or material.

Extend backgrounds and images 3 mm beyond the cut line. Keep text and important elements at least 3 mm inside the cut line.

Example: supply A4 210 x 297 mm as 216 x 303 mm

For contour cut, kiss cut and through cut, supply a closed vector path as a spot colour. Use the exact name CutContour.

In the editor, sticker products can also generate and check a cut line automatically.

For gold foil or other spot finishing, the foil layer must be a separate spot colour in the PDF. Do not use a regular gold CMYK fill.

Using low-resolution images from websites.

No bleed, which can create white edges.

Placing text too close to the cut line.

Using a gold colour instead of a real foil layer.

Our team checks your files for free and gives advice for the best print quality.