Creating perfect PDF print files

Here are some essential guidelines to creating perfect PDF print files.  We find that many clients send us print ready files that do not have bleed, crop marks or the colours are set to RGB rather than CMYK.  We have compiled this list of instructions for the most popular programmes.

ADOBE INDESIGN

• Artwork must have a minimum of 3mm bleed (image area outside of the trim area).
• All fonts must be embedded.
• Documents must be CMYK as all Pantones will be converted during the printing process, unless specified otherwise.
• Go to: File > Export. Select Adobe PDF (Print) in the Format dropdown, this will give you the Export Adobe PDF window, select [Press Quality] then select trim marks and use document bleed settings.

ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR

• Artwork must have a minimum of 3mm bleed (image area outside of the trim area).
• All fonts must be embedded.
• Documents must be CMYK as all Pantones will be converted during the printing process, unless specified otherwise.
• Go to: File > Save as. Then select Adobe PDF (pdf) in the Adobe PDF Preset dropdown, select [Press Quality] then select trim marks and use document bleed settings.

ADOBE PHOTOSHOP

• Artwork must have a minimum of 3mm bleed (image area outside of the trim area).
• All fonts must be embedded or converted to curves. Go to: File > Save as. Under Format select Photoshop PDF > Save. This takes you to the Save Adobe PDF window. Under Adobe PDF Preset select Press Quality.
• Documents must be CMYK as all pantones will be converted during the printing process.

QUARK EXPRESS

• Artwork must have a minimum of 3mm bleed (image area outside of the trim area).
• All fonts must be embedded or converted to curves. Go to: File > Export > Layout as PDF. This will give you the Exports as PDF window, select Press Quality then select trim marks and use document bleed settings.
• Documents must be CMYK as all pantones will be converted during the printing process.

We hope you find these tips valuable, if you have any questions, JPS Print Consultants do also offer a design service.