What file format is best for printing?

PDF is the preferred file format for professional printing as it preserves layout, fonts and image quality. AI, EPS and TIFF formats may also be accepted.

Can I use Canva to create print-ready artwork?

Yes. Canva artwork can be used for professional printing if exported as a print-ready PDF, set to CMYK, includes bleed and uses high-resolution images.

Do I need bleed for my artwork?

Yes. If your design includes background colours or images that reach the edge, a 3mm bleed is required to avoid white edges after trimming.

The Ultimate Guide to Creating Print Ready Artwork

This guide is written for businesses in Wimbledon, SW19 and across London looking for professional printing results.

Preparing your artwork correctly before printing is essential for achieving professional, high-quality results. Whether you’re producing business cards, flyers, posters, banners or brochures, properly prepared print ready artwork files help avoid delays, reprints and unexpected costs.

At SW19 Design & Print, based in Wimbledon (SW19), London, we support local businesses and UK-wide clients with expert printing and artwork checks every day. This guide explains everything you need to know to ensure your files are print ready for print the first time.

Choose the Right File Format print ready artwork

For professional printing print ready, PDF is the preferred file format because it preserves layout, fonts and image quality. Other acceptable formats include AI (Adobe Illustrator), EPS, and TIFF for specific print applications. Avoid supplying web-only JPEGs whenever possible, as these are often low resolution.

Best Practice Tip

Export your final design as a Press-Ready PDF using tools such as Adobe InDesign, Illustrator or Canva.

Set the Correct Size & Bleed

Your print ready artwork must be set to the final finished size of the printed product (for example, A5 is 148 × 210 mm). If your design includes background colours or images that reach the edge of the page, you must include a 3 mm bleed on all sides.

Safe Area Guidance

Keep important text and logos at least 5 mm inside the trim line to prevent them from being cut during finishing.

Use the Correct Colour Mode (CMYK)

All professional printing uses CMYK colour mode, not RGB. Designs created for screens may look different when printed if they remain in RGB. Converting your file to CMYK before export ensures more accurate colour reproduction.

Use High-Resolution Images

Images must be supplied at 300 dpi (dots per inch) at their final print size. Low-resolution images taken from websites or social media will appear blurred or pixelated in print.

Important Note

Increasing the size of a low-resolution image will not improve quality. Always use original, high-resolution image files.

Embed or Outline Fonts

Fonts must be embedded within your PDF or converted to outlines/paths. This ensures text prints correctly even if the font is not installed on the printer’s system.

Add Crop Marks

Crop marks indicate where the artwork should be trimmed after printing. These can be added automatically when exporting a print ready artwork PDF from professional design software.

Flatten Transparencies & Layers

Transparent elements, effects and layered files can sometimes cause printing issues. Flattening your print ready artwork before exporting helps ensure consistent results across all printed materials.

Proofread Your Artwork Carefully

Always double-check spelling, contact details, QR codes and layout before submitting your files. Once artwork is printed, errors cannot be corrected without reprinting.

Request a Test Print or Proof

If time allows, request a printed proof or carry out a small test print. This allows you to review colours, scale and layout before full production.

Work Closely With Your Printer

Clear communication with your printer ensures the best results. Discuss materials, finishes, turnaround times and colour expectations before printing begins.

At SW19 Design & Print in Wimbledon, we’re always happy to review your files and offer guidance before production.

Print Ready Artwork Checklist

Quick Reference Table

File format: PDF / AI / EPS / TIFF
Colour mode: CMYK
Resolution: 300 dpi
Bleed: 3 mm
Safe area: 5 mm
Fonts: Embedded or outlined

Print Ready Artwork Support in Wimbledon (SW19)

Whether you’re a local Wimbledon business or ordering printing anywhere in the UK, our team provides professional artwork checks and expert print advice.

If you need help preparing files for business cards, flyers, posters, banners or large-format printing, contact SW19 Design & Print your trusted local printing specialists in SW19, London.