FAQ

Artwork guidelines FAQ's

• What is bleed, and why is it important for print jobs?

  Bleed is the extra area beyond the trim size of your document, ensuring that your design extends all the way to the edge of the printed piece after trimming. For most projects, a minimum of 2mm bleed is recommended, but this can vary depending on the type of project. Without bleed, you risk having unprinted edges if there’s any slight variation during cutting.

• What file formats should I use for print?

  For the best print results, send high-resolution PDFs. These are universally accepted by professional printers and maintain design integrity. Avoid file formats like MS Word, MS Publisher, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, Google Docs, and Canva files, as they can cause formatting issues or missing fonts and images. Ensure that all fonts and images are embedded in your PDF to prevent any errors in the print process.

• How do I ensure my fonts and images are correctly included in my print files?

  To avoid issues with missing fonts or images, always embed them in your file before submission. This ensures your design will appear exactly as intended on any system or printer, even if the recipient does not have access to the original fonts or images. Most design software, like Adobe InDesign or Illustrator, allows you to embed fonts and images easily.

• What resolution should my images be for print?

  For high-quality prints, your images should have a minimum resolution of 300ppi (pixels per inch). This ensures that your images are sharp and clear in the final printed product. Low-resolution images, especially those that are scaled up, may appear pixelated or blurry when printed.

• Why do I need to proofread my files before sending them for printing?

  Proofreading is crucial before sending files to print to ensure that there are no spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Even minor mistakes can have a significant impact on the cost of the final product, so it’s essential to check your content carefully to avoid any printing inaccuracies. We (Wolfpack) don’t proofread files unless specifically requested, so it’s up to you to ensure the text is error-free.

• What is the difference between RGB and CMYK for printing?

  RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is the colour model used for digital screens, while CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) is used for printing. RGB colours are created by combining light, whereas CMYK colours are made by mixing inks. To ensure colour accuracy in print, always set your files to CMYK, as this colour mode matches the printing process. RGB colours may not print as expected and can result in a shift in hues.

• What are the correct margins for printing?

  Margins are important to ensure that no important information or borders are cut off during the printing process. Most projects require a margin of at least 3-5mm, but the exact margin size will depend on your specific project. Always check the print specification sheet for the precise margin requirements for your item.

• What is the correct size for my print file?

  The file must be sized exactly according to the intended print dimensions. To avoid distortion or loss of quality, do not resize your file after it's created. Refer to the print specification sheet for your project to ensure that your file is correctly sized. If you're unsure, it's best to contact us before submitting the file.

• What is the best paper type for my print project?

  The best paper type depends on the nature of your project. For example, if you’re printing business cards, a heavier GSM paper (around 350gsm) will give your cards a premium feel. For brochures or flyers, you may want a lighter GSM paper to reduce costs while still maintaining quality. The choice of paper will affect both the look and feel of your printed material, so always choose according to your project needs.

• What should I check for before sending my file to print?

  Before submitting your file for print, ensure the following: 1) Proofread your content for errors, 2) Check the file is correctly sized, 3) Ensure all images are at least 300ppi, 4) Include appropriate margins and bleeds, 5) Embed all fonts and images, and 6) Set colours to CMYK. These checks help prevent delays and ensure your print job meets expectations.

• Do you have a question?