How to Prepare Your Files for Print (Without the Headache) 🖨️

When it’s time to send your designs off to print, nothing slows things down faster than a file that isn’t print-ready. 😩 Whether you're printing a flyer, a banner, or business cards, a few key tips can save you time, stress, and extra costs.

At Mona Graphic Printers, we believe in making printing simple — so here’s your no-fuss guide to preparing files like a pro:

1. Add Bleed (Trust Us, You Need It) ✂️

What is it?  Bleed is the extra space (usually 0.125" or 3mm) around your design to ensure nothing important gets cut off during trimming.

Tip: Make sure backgrounds, borders, or images that touch the edge extend past the trim line. Keep text and logos safely inside the "safe zone."

2. Use High Resolution (300 DPI is the Sweet Spot)

What is it? DPI stands for “dots per inch” — and 300 DPI is ideal for crisp, clear printing.

Tip: Avoid using screenshots or low-quality web images. If it looks blurry on screen, it’ll be worse in print.

 

3. Choose the Right File Format 🗂️

Best formats for print:

•  ✅ PDF (preferred!)

•  ✅ TIFF

•  ✅ EPS (for logos)

•  ✅ High-res JPEGs (300 DPI only)

Tip: Avoid sending Word or PowerPoint files — they can shift or compress elements.

4. Check Your Colour Mode (CMYK > RGB) 🎨

What is it? RGB is for screens. CMYK is for print. If you design in RGB, colours may shift when printed.

Tip: Set your document to CMYK from the start — especially for logos and brand colours.

5. Double-Check Everything Before Sending 🔍

Before hitting “send,” ask yourself:

• Is everything spelled correctly?

• Are all images high resolution?

• Are bleeds and margins in place?

• Is it in the correct file format?

Bonus: Export your final version as a flattened PDF with crop marks.

Pro Tip: Not Sure? Ask Us First! 🧠

At MGP, we’re always happy to check your file before printing. A quick review = no surprises later. 

💬 Let’s Print It Right the First Time

Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just getting started, we’re here to guide you through every step. Print prep doesn’t have to be painful — and with MGP, it won’t be.

📩 Need help preparing your files? Just send us a message — we’ve got you!

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