Guide Removal
Print guides are handy dotted lines that show you where your project will be cut or folded. But here's the catch: they should be removed before sending your files off to print. It's as simple as placing them on their own layer in your design file and deleting that layer before printing.
Color Conversion From RGB to CMYK
When it comes to color, make sure you're speaking the printer's language. If your project is destined for print, stick to CMYK. But if it's digital or television-bound, RGB is your go-to. If you forget to convert your colors to CMYK, you’ll likely end up with colors that aren’t accurate or matching your brand standards.
High-Res or Bust
Say goodbye to blurry, pixelated images by ensuring your images are high-resolution. Aim for at least 300 pixels per inch (PPI) to maintain crisp, clear prints that do justice to your visuals. To check the resolution of an image, simply right-click and view its properties or info.
Text: Not Too Big, Not Too Small
Finding the perfect font size is all about balance. Text that's too large can overwhelm your design, while text that's too small is squint-inducing. For brochures and other handheld delights, stick to 10-14 points for body text and 18-28 points for headlines. And don't forget about text hierarchy! Differentiate your headlines, subheadings, and body copy with varying font sizes, white space, or colors to make your text easy on the eyes and the brain.
It’s Worth It to Test
Save yourself time, funds, and a headache by printing one test file before you print a whole batch of materials. Then you can make adjustments and repeat that test until your project is perfectly printed.
The next time you're ready to print, keep this checklist handy to ensure your project turns out just as you envisioned. With a little attention to detail and some printing know-how, you'll be expert at bringing your visions to life in print.