How to prepare files for printing
Send a PDF, AI or EPS file, or a PNG at 300 dpi or higher. Extend background colors 1/8 inch past the edge (bleed), keep text 1/8 inch inside it (safe margin), and use CMYK colors. If that sounds like a lot, send what you have: free design help is included.
The checklist
- Format: PDF, AI, EPS, or a high-resolution PNG (300 dpi minimum at print size)
- Size: the exact finished size, for example 3.5 x 2 in for a business card
- Bleed: extend colors and images 1/8 inch (0.125 in) beyond the trim on every side
- Safe margin: keep text and logos at least 1/8 inch inside the trim
- Color: CMYK for print; screen RGB colors can shift, especially bright blues and greens
- Fonts: convert text to outlines or embed fonts in the PDF
- Images: use the original photo, not a screenshot or a social media download
Why bleed matters
Cutting machines have a tiny tolerance. Without bleed, a design with a colored background can show a thin white edge after trimming. With 1/8 inch of extra color, the cut always lands inside the design.
Why 300 dpi
A logo that looks sharp on a phone can be only 72 dpi and print blurry. At 300 dpi at the final size, edges and small text stay crisp. Vector files (AI, EPS, PDF from a design app) scale to any size without losing quality.
Stickers, decals and NFC cards
- Die-cut stickers: we follow your artwork outline, so leave a little space around the design
- Cut vinyl lettering: one solid color, vector artwork works best
- NFC cards: just send the link you want on the chip, we program it
- Clear stickers: tell us the surface; white ink behind the design keeps colors bright on dark bottles
No file? No problem
Send a photo, a sketch or an old printed piece. Free design help is included, and our free Design Studio can generate a few starting options.
Not sure if your file works? Send it and we check it right away.
Questions
What file formats do you accept?
PDF, AI, EPS and high-resolution PNG (300 dpi minimum).
What is bleed in printing?
Extra background color, usually 1/8 inch, beyond the cut line so no white edge shows after trimming.
Can you fix my file if it is not print-ready?
Yes. Free design help is included with every order.
