Our very own Kayleigh Price has written this post about a subject she is passionate about – graphic design for print and how to prepare artwork.
Seeing your ideas come to life through the process of design is probably one of the most exciting things about starting a new project. From initial concepts to the final design, there really is nothing quite like building the brand you’ve always dreamed of.
However, your journey doesn’t just end with an Illustrator file. One of the next steps is getting your artwork to print, and here are five steps you can follow to do just that.
- Make sure your file is set up in CMYK colour mode.
This first step is crucial to the print process, and is something you can set up at the very beginning, before you even start designing!
- Include bleed in your document.
The bleed is extra space around your documents page(s) and can also be added in the set up process. If any images, colours or backgrounds extend to the edge of your page, the bleed will reduce the risk of white edging when being trimmed. The usual size required for a bleed is 3mm.*
- All images have a resolution of 300 DPI.
The higher the resolution of the image, the higher the quality of the image. The last thing you want is to receive your print and have low quality/blurry imagery, so setting your resolution to 300DPI will avoid this issue.
If you send us images that aren’t suitable for print i.e. too small – we don’t reply asking for better ones just to annoy you – we need them!
- Add printer’s marks.
When exporting your document, you will need to add printer’s marks to your file. The most common marks needed will be crop marks, alongside bleed marks*. Crop marks will ensure that your document is cut in the right places.
- Export your document as a PDF.
Once your document is ready to be sent to print, make sure you export it as a PDF. A PDF is recommended as it allows the printers to make changes to the file if necessary, such as verifying colour modes and combining files.
Following these five easy steps will ensure that your artwork is ready to print! You can then see your brand expand through promotional materials, such as posters, leaflets and clothing – as well as many other forms.
*These steps are based upon common guidelines, however, please check with your chosen printing company to confirm your document is set up to their standards.
If you have any graphic design requirements i.e. flyers, brochures, reports, banners, please get in touch and we will be most happy to help.
Please email hello@allianceagency.co.uk or phone 01633 449885.
