Ensure Your Files Are Press-Ready for Impactful Printing

This important step allows us to identify potential issues before production begins, helping us to reduce the risk of errors and avoid delays. By thoroughly reviewing your files for things like resolution, colour profiles, and correct dimensions, we aim to ensure that your design will translate perfectly onto the final product. Our team’s goal is to provide you with a seamless experience, enabling us to achieve the best possible print outcome for your project—no surprises, just high-quality results every time.

For our trade clients, we truly value your business. However, as part of the agreement to access our competitive trade pricing, we rely on you to provide properly prepared files that are 100% ready for our printing and finishing processes. We trust that you’re familiar with the file requirements and have everything in place to ensure a smooth, efficient workflow from start to finish.

What Is Press-Ready Artwork?

To ensure smooth production and flawless results, your artwork must meet these press-ready specifications:

• File Type: High-resolution PDF files
• Size: Supplied at 1:1 scale*, centred, 1-up per page
  *the actual size that needs to be printed
• Bleed and Margins: 3mm external bleed and 3mm internal margins
• Fonts: All fonts converted to outlines
• Images: Embedded images at 300-600dpi (no upsampling); vector-based graphics will give a better outcome for non-photo elements.
• Colour: CMYK process colours (no RGB)

For product-specific details, refer to our Artwork Guidelines for your specific product. Meeting these requirements prevents production delays and ensures your project prints as expected.

Why Is File Checking Mandatory for Files Supplied as Press-Ready?

Errors in artwork setup can cause printing issues, unexpected costs, and delays. Our file check is designed to identify common mistakes and assist in preparing your files for production.

Even if you believe your file is press-ready, our file check serves as an extra safeguard to catch potential oversights. However, please keep in mind that while our team strives for accuracy, we may not identify every issue. Any technical errors in client-supplied artwork remain the responsibility of the client and will not qualify for a reprint.

One Free File Check Per Order

Each retail order includes one free file check to confirm your artwork is press-ready.

• If corrections are needed, additional file checks may incur fees.
• Files that don’t meet press-ready standards may require our design assistance services.

Accepted File Formats

• Eligible for Free File Check: Press-ready PDF files
  
  
• Other Formats (e.g., Word, JPEG, PNG): These are not press-ready and may incur additional artwork charges

File Check Service Overview

Our team will review your file for:

• Correct size and dimensions
• Bleed and margin compliance
• Colours set to CMYK (or PMS if applicable)
• Images embedded and at least 300dpi resolution
• Fonts outlined or embedded correctly
• No overprint settings used
• Black colour rules followed
• Pages arranged in the correct order
• Fold alignments and artwork positioning
• Borders meet artwork guideline recommendations
• Special finishes set up properly

Important Note:
While the file check identifies technical issues, we do not review spelling, grammar, or the accuracy of content (e.g., contact details).

What Happens If Issues Are Found?

If we find challenges with your file, here’s what happens next:

1. Minor Adjustments
   • If no bleed is supplied but the background is a solid colour, we’ll add bleed and trim marks, then send you a proof for approval.
2. File Fix Required
   • If other issues exist (e.g., missing bleed on non-solid backgrounds), we’ll notify you by email. You can:
     • Supply a corrected file for re-checking
     • Request our team to fix the file (artwork fees apply)
3. Approval Before Printing
   • You’ll need to approve an emailed artwork proof and any adjustments we make before we proceed to print.

What Happens If You Skip File Fixes?

If you choose not to address identified issues, the file will print as supplied. Any errors or misprints caused by incorrect artwork setup will be the responsibility of the client.

Need Help Setting Up Your Artwork?

If your artwork needs adjustments or you’re unsure about the setup, our design team can assist with:

• New Designs – Custom designs tailored to your brand
• Design Updates – Adjustments to existing editable Adobe files
• Design Recreation – Converting non-PDF formats or images into print-ready files

Choosing a design service upfront is often more cost-effective than submitting multiple files for checks, especially if major adjustments are required.

Next Steps

1. Place and pay for your order.
2. Upload your press-ready files.
3. Let our experts ensure your files are ready for impactful printing!

Need help? Contact us today for personalised design support.