Print quick tips
For any custom print projects that fall outside the scope of the standardized brand items listed above, there are a few considerations that should be taken into account before submitting to a print vendor:
- Bleed: Check with your printer to verify the amount of bleed, if any, they will need for their projects. ⅛” or 1/16” bleed is a typical requirement for most printers. Ensure that all graphics and background colors extend into the bleed box, and that bleeds are enabled when exporting a print-ready PDF. For more detailed instructions, follow this tutorial.
- PDF format: The most common PDF format for printing is PDF/X-1a.
- Transparencies: Ensure that all transparencies are flattened before submitting a print-ready PDF, as transparencies can interact differently with different processing software and produce unintended results if left unflattened. Learn more
- Colors: Double check your document for consistent use of colors. Learn how to evaluate if the colors in your print-ready PDF is the Print Production tool in Adobe Acrobat.
- Fonts: Ensure that all fonts are either embedded into your document or converted to outlines. All fonts should follow brand standards.
- Packaged files: It is helpful to submit a packaged native file if working in Adobe InDesign along with a print-ready PDF in case the printer needs to make any changes. Learn more about packaging InDesign files.
Industry resources
- FoldFactory: resources for custom fold patterns and ideas to inspire you.
- Print Preflight Checklist: a helpful checklist before sending your files to print, including how to package an InDesign file, what PDF formats to use, color profiles, and more.