File Preparation

Checklist

You are fully responsible for the correctness of your submitted files.

We do our best to help you submit correct files and avoid misprints. We will not, however, refund or replace a misprint caused by your file not meeting our file requirements. Below is a checklist comprising the most important topics that you should keep in mind when designing your files.

  • Bleed & Safe Area: Make sure you have understood the concept of bleed and safe area. Your file must be prepared to meet trimming line deviations. Read more.
  • Document Size: Your file must have the exact document size required for the product (including bleed). Document size is also called canvas size. Read more.
  • File Template: We highly recommend using a file template. A template ensures that your file has the right document size and assists you with bleed and safe area lines. Get one.
  • Color Mode: Always use CMYK. Never use RGB. Also, be aware of the risk of using extremely high or extremely low color densities. Read more.
  • Resolution: Resolution must be at least 300 dpi. Lower resolutions may result in poor printing quality. Our server automatically checks the resolution of your files. It will reject files with a resolution below 150 dpi and give a warning for files with a resolution between 150 and 300 dpi. Read more.
  • File Format: We highly recommend setting up your file as a PDF in PDF/X3-2002 standard. PDF maintains all vector-based elements, which generally produces sharper graphics and smoother text than pixel-based formats. Read more and find PDF/X3 export settings here.
  • Artwork Orientation: If you submit a multi-page file, make sure that the pages are set up following our template and artwork is aligned correctly. Read more.
  • Page Count: Be sure that the page count of your file(s) matches your order. Leaflets must follow our templates. Other multi-page products (such as magazines, calendars,...) should be submitted in one pdf with consecutive, single pages containing bleed. Read more.
  • Display Errors: When viewing your files (and proofs) we recommend using professional applications like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat Reader rather than viewing your files in your browser or in standard viewers like Picture Viewer, Fax Viewer, etc. The latter may show errors which actually do not exist. We also recommend reviewing your design in printed form.
  • Spot UV: If your order includes Spot UV, please follow our Spot UV instructions.

We are continually improving this help center to give you the best possible advice. If you have questions or suggestions, please write to service(at)1-2-print.co.uk. Thank you for your feedback.

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