Design & files
Design requirements, resolution, and file setup so your artwork prints correctly the first time.
Guides
Why resolution matters for print and how to set up your files so sharpness and detail hold up at full size.
1 min readBleed, trim, and safe areaWhy bleed and safe area matter and how to set them up so nothing gets cut off.
2 min readRGB vs CMYK and why prints shiftWhy screen colors do not match print and how to set up files for predictable results.
2 min readFonts and outlines: how to avoid missing textWhy fonts go missing in print files and how to outline or embed them correctly.
2 min readDPI vs PPI explained (and why it matters for print)DPI and PPI are often used interchangeably but refer to different things. Using the wrong one leads to soft or pixelated print.
5 min readWhy proofs matter and when to insist on oneProofs reduce the gap between expectation and result. Skipping them can cost reprints.
2 min readResolution requirements for large-format printingChoose image PPI at final size around viewing distance, with clear scale instructions for large-format artwork.
2 min readVector vs raster files and when each is requiredWhen vector art is necessary and when raster is acceptable. What breaks when you use the wrong type.
2 min readTransparency and overprints: where files breakHow transparency and overprint settings can cause unexpected results in print and how to fix them.
2 min readRich black vs true black explainedWhy 100% K can look gray and when to use a rich black build. What goes wrong when the wrong black is used.
2 min readWhy scaled images look fine on screen but fail in printZoomed-out previews can hide low effective image resolution. Check pixel dimensions at the intended print size.
2 min readMargins that look safe but aren'tWhy "safe" margins can still get cut off or look wrong. Trim variance and finishing equipment limits.
2 min readExporting from Canva for professional printingPrepare your Canva design for printing with the right page size, PDF export and bleed, plus help when you are unsure.
2 min read