Canva is built for digital and social; print export requires attention to size, resolution, and color. Default exports are often too small or in RGB. With the right settings, you can get a usable print file.
Size and resolution
Set your design to the final print size before you start. Export at 300 DPI (or the printer's requirement for large-format). Canva's "Print" preset may still be wrong size; confirm dimensions in the export dialog.
Color
Canva exports in RGB by default. For print, we need CMYK. Export as PDF and note "RGB" in the filename so we know to convert; expect some color shift. If Canva offers a CMYK export in your plan, use it.
Checklist for Canva print export
• Canvas size set to final print dimensions.
• Export at 300 DPI (or printer's minimum for large-format).
• Export PDF or PNG; tell the printer if the file is RGB.
• Avoid heavy transparency or effects that may not flatten well.
Common mistake
Exporting at "standard" or default size and assuming it is print-ready. The file may be 72 DPI or the wrong dimensions. Always set size and DPI explicitly before export.