1. Set Up the Correct Document Size and Resolution

The foundation of a successful print project starts with the right document settings. Here’s how to do it:

• Document Size: Ensure your canvas size matches the print size. For example, if you're designing a standard A4 poster, set your document dimensions to 210mm x 297mm.
• Resolution: Print projects require higher resolutions than digital ones. Set your resolution to 300 DPI (dots per inch) to ensure crisp, high-quality images.

2. Use CMYK Colour Mode

Digital screens use the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) colour mode, but printers use CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black). Switching your document to CMYK early on will help you better predict how colours will look in print.

• Go to Image > Mode > CMYK Color to convert your design.
• Be mindful that some RGB colours don't have exact CMYK equivalents. Make adjustments to ensure colour accuracy.

3. Bleed and Margins

To avoid white edges after trimming, you need to add bleed to your document. This is an extra margin outside the document area that gets trimmed off.

• Add a 3mm bleed on all sides. In Photoshop, set this up by going to Image > Canvas Size and adding 6mm to both the width and height (3mm for each side).
• Keep important elements (text, logos) within the 'safe area', typically 5mm inside the trim edge, to avoid them being cut off.

4. Embed or Outline Your Fonts

Fonts can sometimes cause issues if they aren't embedded correctly. To ensure your text prints correctly, embed your fonts or convert them to outlines.

• For embedding, make sure you include fonts when you save the PDF.
• To convert text to outlines, select the text layer, right-click and choose Convert to Shape.

5. Check Your Images and Graphics

Ensure all images and graphics are of high quality:

• Resolution: Use images at 300 DPI to avoid pixelation.
• Linked vs. Embedded: Embed your images to avoid missing links when transferring files. Go to Layer > Smart Objects > Convert to Embedded.
• Color Profile: Use CMYK colour profile images to maintain colour consistency.

6. Use Vector Graphics When Possible

Vectors are resolution-independent and ensure your graphics remain sharp at any size. Use vector-based elements for logos, icons, and illustrations wherever possible.

7. Proper Layer Management

Organize your layers to simplify the printing process:

• Name your layers descriptively.
• Group related layers together.
• Hide or delete any layers that are not needed for the final print.

8. Proof Your Design

Before sending your design to print, do a thorough proof:

• Spelling and Grammar: Double-check all text for errors.
• Color Accuracy: Print a sample on your local printer to see how colours appear.
• Visual Balance: Ensure the layout is balanced and visually appealing.

9. Save and Export Correctly

When your design is finalised, save and export it correctly for print:

• File Format: Save your file as a PDF for the best print results. Use File > Save As and select PDF.
• PDF Settings: In the save dialogue, choose High-Quality Print and ensure that 'Preserve Photoshop Editing Capabilities' is unchecked. Under Marks and Bleeds, check Crop Marks and use the document bleed settings.

10. Communicate with Your Printer

Finally, communicate clearly with your printer. Provide them with any specific instructions and confirm that your file meets their requirements.

Following these tips from SW19 Design and Print will ensure your Photoshop designs are print-ready and meet the highest quality standards. Happy designing!

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