Print File Preparation Guide
Updated October 09, 2025
Quick Specs
- File types: PDF (recommended), JPG, EPS, or TIFF
- Color mode: CMYK (no RGB or Pantone spot colors unless your product specifically supports them)
- Resolution: 300 dpi at final size
- Bleed: 0.125" (1/8") on all sides for standard products
- Safe zone: Keep all text and critical elements at least 0.125" inside the trim
- Fonts: Embed or outline all fonts
- Front/Back: Provide separate files for each side if double‑sided
1) Size, Bleed & Safe Area
Set your canvas to the file size with bleed shown below. Keep text and logos inside the safe zone to avoid trimming.
| Product | Final Size (in) | File Size w/ Bleed (in) | Safe Zone Margin (in) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Cards | 3.5 × 2 | 3.75 × 2.25 | 0.125 | Standard US size |
| Postcards | 4 × 6 | 4.125 × 6.125 | 0.125 | |
| Postcards | 5 × 7 | 5.125 × 7.125 | 0.125 | |
| Postcards | 6 × 9 | 6.125 × 9.125 | 0.125 | |
| Flyers | 8.5 × 11 | 8.625 × 11.125 | 0.125 | Applies to brochures before folding |
| Flyers | 5.5 × 8.5 | 5.625 × 8.625 | 0.125 | |
| Door Hangers | 3.5 × 8.5 | 3.625 × 8.625 | 0.125 | Use our downloadable template to position the hanger hole & die shape |
| Door Hangers | 4.25 × 11 | 4.375 × 11.125 | 0.125 | Use our downloadable template to position the hanger hole & die shape |
| #10 Envelopes | 4.125 × 9.5 | See notes | 0.125 (on face) | Bleeds/printing on flaps require 1/16" overbleed & color wrap to back. Use certified envelope templates. |
| Letterhead | 8.5 × 11 | 8.625 × 11.125 | 0.125 | Uncoated writing stocks |
2) Color & Black Builds
- Convert all artwork to CMYK before exporting.
- Use 100% K (black) for small black text and fine lines to prevent halos or registration issues.
- For large black fills/backgrounds, use a rich black build (e.g., C30/M20/Y20/K100). Avoid 4‑color black for small type.
3) Fonts, Images & Transparency
- Embed or outline all fonts in your PDF. Avoid live fonts in EPS/JPG/TIFF.
- Place raster images at 300 dpi at final size. Avoid upscaling low‑res images.
- Flatten transparency effects where possible to prevent unexpected results.
4) Specialty Finishes (Spot UV / Raised UV / Foil / White Ink)
- Provide a separate mask file for Spot UV, Raised UV, Foil, or White Ink.
- Mask files must be vector art and use solid 100% K black (no tints, gradients, or grayscale). White = no effect.
- Keep effects at least 1/16" from scores, folds, or edges and avoid overlapping foil with UV.
5) Templates
Download our Certified Templates for exact placement of bleeds, safe areas, folds, die cuts, and envelope flaps. Use the correct template for each product and size.
6) Export Checklist
- PDF/X‑1a or high‑quality PDF with bleed included
- One file per side (Front / Back), unless the product specifies otherwise
- CMYK only; images at 300 dpi
- Fonts embedded or outlined
- Specialty masks included (if applicable)
Questions? Need a template? Contact us and we’ll send the exact file you need.