Artwork Guide

Lets play by the rules...

Try to use PDF

PDF logo for artwork

Save your files in PDF/X-1a:2001 format for optimal print accuracy.

However, if that's not possible, don’t worry—we’re flexible and will still accept PNG, JPEG, or any other format you have.

Our Artwork team is here to support you, so if there are any issues, they'll get in touch with a fix, a workaround, or maybe just to have a chat if they're feeling lonely!

 

 

 

Safe Area

image on 3mm margin for artwork guide by rapid print pro

Please ensure that any text is positioned at least 3mm away from the edges. While we strive for perfect cutting, there is always a small chance of movement. If you prefer a borderless background, extend it beyond the edge, but keep all important content 3mm away from the edges.

 

 

Resolution

Image showing high resolution artwork checking by Rapid print pro

Supplying high-resolution artwork guarantees sharp, clear prints with optimal detail and color accuracy. Images from WhatsApp, for example, won't produce crisp prints, so always export from Canva at 300dpi. Whenever possible, use original images instead of screenshots. Don't worry if you make a mistake—our artwork team will be your safety net and will catch anything that may need adjustment.

Text Size

Example of how large text should be on a business card

As a general rule, try to keep text above 6pt—of course, for designs like roller banners, you should use fonts 70pt and above. And, if you're working on a contract with the devil, maybe a font size below 6pt could be more fitting! In short, keep fonts above 6pt to ensure they are easily readable.

 

 

 

Make it Bleed

Bleed example for artwork

If you're lucky enough to have the Adobe package, set your bleed to 3mm in the document settings. This allows your artwork (such as backgrounds) to extend beyond the finished size into the bleed area. This way, any slight movement during cutting will be hidden, ensuring no white borders around the edges.

If you don’t have a design package, no worries! Simply make your artwork canvas 3mm larger on all sides. For example, if you're designing a business card that will be trimmed to 85mm x 55mm, your background should extend to 91mm x 61mm. Just remember, any text should be at least 3mm away from the 85mm x 55mm edge!

Transparency

image of a diagram explaining how transperency works

Printing digital artworks can come with one little issue—transparency. While it might not be visible on screen, it has a huge impact when it comes to printing. So, make sure to flatten any transparency before exporting. 

Check the link here if you need help : HELP ME

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resolution

Image showing high resolution artwork checking by Rapid print pro

Supplying high-resolution artwork guarantees sharp, clear prints with optimal detail and color accuracy. Images from WhatsApp, for example, won't produce crisp prints, so always export from Canva at 300dpi. Whenever possible, use original images instead of screenshots. Don't worry if you make a mistake—our artwork team will be your safety net and will catch anything that may need adjustment.

 

 

 

 

 

Roller Banner

Example of how Roller Banner Artwork should be supplied

Roller banner artwork should be supplied at the product size, e.g., for a standard 80cm roller banner, artwork should be provided at 800mm x 2000mm with a 3mm bleed on all sides, if possible.

Our artwork team will then add an extra 150mm section below your design, which will be hidden inside the roller banner mechanism. This section helps attach the display to the pull-up banner.

Please, there’s no need to include this extra section in your artwork when submitting.

 

 

Paint outside the lines...

 Essential Rules for Designing the Perfect Print File

 Account for Bleed and Safe Zones:

Extend your background colors or images into the bleed area and keep all critical elements (like text and logos) within the safe zone to avoid them getting cut off.

Submit Vector-Based PDFs:

For designs with graphics or text, always use vector formats. We recommend Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, or the latest versions of Adobe Photoshop. *Note*: Text saved as JPEGs can result in blurry or "fuzzy" edges.

Use High-Resolution Images:

Ensure that any photography or detailed text is set at 300 dpi for optimal clarity. Save your final design as a high-quality PDF.

Preflight Your PDFs:

When saving your file, use the 'Adobe PDF/X-1a:2001' preset. This ensures that your design is print-ready and avoids issues with transparency and color.

Save Designs as Single-Page PDFs:

To streamline the upload process, save each design as a separate, single-page PDF. This ensures everything is organized and ready for printing.

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