You don't need to be a designer to send files that print beautifully. A few simple checks make the difference between a crisp result and a blurry one. Here is what our print team looks at when your file arrives.
Use a high-resolution image
Screens are forgiving; print is not. A picture that looks fine on your phone can print blurry when it is enlarged.
- Aim for 300 DPI at the final print size
- A quick check: zoom your image to 200%. If it looks soft or blocky, it will print that way too
- Avoid images saved from websites or social media, as they are usually compressed
Send your logo in its original format
Logos are best sent as vector files, such as AI, EPS, CDR or a PDF exported from design software. Vector files can be printed at any size without losing sharpness. If you only have a JPG or PNG, send the largest version you have.
Leave room for bleed and safe margins
Printers trim cards and prints after printing, and the cut can move by a millimetre or two.
- Bleed: extend background colours and images 3 mm beyond the edge of the design
- Safe zone: keep text and logos at least 3–5 mm inside the edge
Tip: if your design has a white border by choice, make it thick. Thin borders show even tiny trimming differences.
Check text and fonts
- Keep small text at 7 pt or larger so it stays readable
- Convert fonts to outlines, or send the font files with your design
- Read every word once more, especially names, phone numbers and spellings
Choose the right file to send
| What you have | Best format to send |
|---|---|
| Logo | AI, EPS, CDR or PDF |
| Photo | Original JPG or PNG from the camera |
| Full design | Print-ready PDF |
| Names list for cards | Excel or CSV |
Not sure? Send it anyway
You can upload any of these on our Upload Your Design page and tick "I need design help". Our team checks every file before printing and will tell you if something needs fixing, so nothing prints until it is right.
