Avoid these common mistakes when creating artwork files for print
When creating your print design, there are some simple yet common mistakes we want to help you avoid. These errors can make an otherwise smooth printing job a complete pain. Here at Pel Hughes we want to make sure your printing experience is altogether flawless – just like your final product. Read on to find out which mistakes you can easily avoid.
1. Using a Low Resolution Image
Though you might not believe it, we are not miracle workers. We have moments, but on the whole, we can’t do too much to fix a poor quality image and ready it for high resolution printing. While a file may look fine while on your screen, it can very easily turn out blurry if the correct resolution is not set. The quality of your printout will be determined by the dots per inch (dpi) and the resolution. An image with 300dpi will be of much better quality compared to the one with 72dpi, which is why 300dpi is recommended.
Another way to work around the issues low resolution images present is to save all of your images as vectors. What is a vector, you ask? Unlike images created from pixels, vector images are made up of a series of corners and curves that allow them to be enlarged and maintain high resolution. We’re big fans of vectors.
2. Failing to add Bleed
You will notice that at times the document layout will extend to the edges of your design. In this instance, it is important to use “bleed,” which will extend your colors past the edges of your document. After printing the design, you can trim off this extension, ensuring that there is no white edge on the finished product.
3. Setting the Incorrect Size
Before sending the design for printing, you should confirm that it matches your desired size. You should also ensure that the design is positioned correctly and has the right proportions. If you intend to have a have a 25 x 25mm sticker, you should set the layout at 31 x 31mm so as to include the bleed area. After setting your document correctly, you should send it to the printer without making further changes. There are many pre-set templates which can be downloaded online including PDF versions with step-to-step guides on how to set your design’s proportions correctly.
4. Using Incompatible Software
Help us help you by saving your work in the version of software we’re working in. This might require you to pick up the old phone and give us a ring, but we’ll all appreciate being on the same page when it comes time to print! Once you know what version to work in, you’ll need to backdate the file by saving it as an EPS and then picking the correct version of Illustrator.
5. Making Simple Spelling Errors
Last but MOST DEFINITELY not least is the fatal error of including spelling and grammar errors in your piece ready for printing. While we’ll do our best to catch any obvious mistakes, please make sure to be double, triple, and quadruple checking your materials. The very last thing you want to discover on the 600th copy of your gorgeous new mailer is a silly and avoidable spelling error.
Avoid these headaches, and always feel free to give the team at Pel Hughes a call with any questions! We can’t wait to hear from you.
