Instructions for preparing files for printing

There are two types of graphics files: image and vector graphics.

Pixel-based graphics, is made up of small squares (pixels) that you can see when you zoom in on the image. The quality of these images is based on the resolution, which is shown in DPI (dots per inch). If you enlarge the image you want to print (which is necessary for large prints such as a jumbo poster), the pixels also become larger, making the image »cubic«, if it is not high-resolution.

Pixel graphics are often created in Adobe Photoshop and have the following extensions JPEG, PNG, GIF and TIFF...

Of course, vector graphics are more suitable for printing, as they do not lose quality when enlarged. If possible, for logos and other graphic elements          

Use vector graphics.

Add at least 3 mm of addition to crop around the entire file to avoid white edges after cropping.

Use CMYK or Pantone colour profiles the colour chart, which is the standard for printing and ensures the correct colours on the final product. The printers operate in a CMYK environment and the files are automatically converted. If the file is prepared in a different environment, colour variations are to be expected.

If the file is prepared in another environment, colour variations are expected!

Place all important elements (text, logos) at least 5 mm from the edge, to prevent them from being cut.

Save your print-ready files in PDF format, which is the most reliable for printing. In addition to the PDF, please attach JPG file, which will serve as a guideline and to ensure that no errors have been made in the printing process.
Prepare files at 1:1 for small-format prints and 1:10 for large-format prints.

Review the whole file and save it as a low res JPG. Attach this JPG to the print file so that we can see the 'compressed' image that will be printed.

Prepare the files for printing in graphic software such as Corel, Illustrator or InDesign. 

You can also prepare the files in Canva, but please contact us for instructions.

Resolution is measured in DPI, which is the number of dots at a distance of 1 inch (2.54 cm). On the web, images are usually at a resolution of 72 DPI, which means that the image is made up of 72 dots at a distance of 2.54 cm.

Text correction: this resolution is suitable for display on screens, and a minimum of 300 dpi is recommended for printing.