Artwork help
Print-ready artwork guidelines
Use this checklist before sending files for business cards, brochures, signage, packaging or promotional products. Confirm product-specific requirements with your quotation.
Start with the finished size
Set the document to the agreed final dimensions before laying out the artwork. State whether the dimensions refer to the flat sheet or the folded item. Large-format artwork can be supplied at an agreed scale, but label that scale clearly and confirm the output dimensions. A display template or packaging dieline should come from the approved production specification.
Add bleed and protect important details
For many trimmed paper products, 3 mm bleed on each edge is a useful starting point. Extend backgrounds and images into that area, while keeping essential text and logos inside the trim line. Safe margins vary by product, cutting method, fold and binding. Ask for the correct template before preparing packaging, shaped stickers or display hardware graphics.
Check image resolution at the final size
For close-viewed printed items, aim for high-quality images around 300 pixels per inch at the placed size where practical. Large-format displays may have different requirements depending on viewing distance. Changing a resolution setting cannot restore detail missing from a small image. Send original photographs rather than screenshots, messaging-app copies or images enlarged from a website.
Choose the correct colour setup
CMYK is commonly used for process printing, while brand spot colours and specialist finishes may need separate specifications. Screen colours can differ from printed colours because screens emit light and paper reflects it. If colour matching is important, provide the reference and discuss a suitable proof. Do not assume a phone screen accurately predicts the finished print.
Prepare logos, fonts and special layers
Use vector logos when available so edges stay sharp at different sizes. Embed fonts in an exported PDF or outline them where appropriate, retaining an editable original for future changes. Keep foil, spot UV, white ink and custom cut paths on clearly named layers or separations as requested. Avoid guessing technical layer settings; confirm the production requirements for the selected finish.
Check folds, binding and variable data
Brochure panels need to follow the intended folding sequence, and some folds require different panel widths. Booklets and company profiles need the correct page order and binding margins. For names, numbering, QR codes or other variable information, provide a clean data file and inspect representative examples, including the longest names. Test every destination link and check codes at the intended printed size.
Export a PDF and review the proof
A print-ready PDF is generally a practical delivery format. Check dimensions, bleed, embedded fonts, image quality and printed sides before sending it. Supply source files if the team requests them for a specific reason. Review spelling, names, numbers, layout and finishing on the final proof. Production should proceed only after the agreed artwork and specification have been approved.
Send the complete order details
Include product, quantity, final size, material preference, printed sides, finishing and required delivery location with your artwork. Mention the required date and whether you need design support. The specification determines the final price and schedule. If a file exceeds the upload limit shown on the form, contact the team to arrange a suitable file-transfer method rather than reducing image quality unnecessarily.
Explore our business card printing, brochure printing and custom packaging pages for product-specific considerations. If you need help preparing a file, contact our Dubai printing team before approving production.
Ready to discuss your print project?
Send the product details and tell us whether your artwork is ready or needs preparation.