Should my artwork contain bleed?
Yes, when looking for an edge to edge print it is recommended that you provide a 3mm bleed around all edges. This allows for tolerances in cutting equipment and ensures that your print can run to the edge.
What is the best resolution for printing?
150 dpi at full size for large format printing (A2 and larger). 200dpi for smaller files.
How should I prepare my files?
- Photoshop documents need to be flattened or merged –to preserve formatting.
- CAD or vector files would be safest as a PDF or illustrator AI files (read our Illustrator file guide).
- For Autocad disappointment is best avoided by binding xrefs and including a CTB file for your pen settings.
- InDesign files should be packaged to include all fonts and images, or exported as a print ready PDF (read our InDesign file guide).
- Illustrator files are best provided with all linked files embedded and all fonts outlines. This way we can be sure that it will look as you intend.
- JPEG files can just be provided as they are, however please consider the resolution depending on the size you wish to print.
Setting up files for perfect binding
- Allow 3mm of bleed on all artwork for perfect binding.
- Ensure that there is at least a 10mm safety margin on all sides for important content.
- Provide a separate file for the cover (this can be a double sided document).
- The cover should be twice as wide as your page size plus the width of your spine.
Work out your spine width using our calculator - Covers should also have 3mm of bleed on all sides
- Covers can be printed double sided for most documents
- The cover should be twice as wide as your page size plus the width of your spine.
- Files should be provided as .pdf documents.
What are the most common paper sizes?
The sizes used in the UK are European ‘A’ sizes. A table of the most common of these sizes can be seen below. We are able to print to most sizes and can crop to suit your needs.
European ‘A’ sizes
| A6 | 105mm x 148.5mm |
| A5 | 148.5mm x 210mm |
| A4 | 210mm x 297mm |
| A3 | 297mm x 420mm |
| A2 | 420mm x 594mm |
| A1 | 594mm x 841mm |
| A0 | 841mm x 1188mm |