Artwork Instructions

How to Prepare Your Artworks

Good print results start with good design. These instructions explain how to structure layouts, place text and images, and use templates so your artwork is visually effective and prints without unexpected problems. Following these guidelines ensures your designs remain sharp, legible, and consistent across all printed products.

Using Templates

Download and work within the product templates we provide. Templates include bleed areas, trim lines, and safe zones marked clearly. Always keep important elements inside the safe zone and extend backgrounds into the bleed. Do not delete or move template guides — they ensure accurate alignment in production.

Layout Balance

Arrange text and images with consistent spacing. Leave breathing room around logos, headlines, and contact information. Avoid overcrowding the layout — excessive elements reduce readability and weaken impact. White space improves clarity and directs the reader’s eye toward key information.

Typography

Use fonts that are easy to read at the size they will appear in print. Body text should generally be no smaller than 8 pt, while headings should contrast in size and weight. Avoid using more than two or three different fonts in a single piece. High contrast between text and background improves legibility in both small and large formats.

Images and Graphics

Use high-quality images suitable for the final size of the product. Photographs should be well-lit, sharp, and free of visible compression artifacts. Avoid stretching or distorting images to fit spaces. If using logos, supply vector files (AI, EPS, or PDF) whenever possible to preserve crisp edges in print.

Backgrounds and Colors

Backgrounds should extend fully into the bleed to prevent unprinted edges. Subtle gradients and textures reproduce best when designed at high resolution. Be careful with very dark backgrounds behind small text — thin strokes can fill in when printed. For brand colors, provide Pantone references if color consistency is critical across multiple products.

Alignment and Margins

Align text and elements consistently across the layout. Use grids or guides to keep spacing even. Maintain safe margins around all critical content — at least 3 mm inside the trim line for most products. For bound items such as booklets, allow additional margin on the binding edge so no text is lost in the fold.

Visual Hierarchy

Design with a clear reading order. Headlines should stand out first, followed by subheads, body text, and secondary details. Use scale, weight, and spacing to establish hierarchy. This helps readers quickly understand your message without confusion.

Consistency Across Products

When designing sets of materials (such as business cards, flyers, and brochures), maintain consistent colors, fonts, and visual elements. Consistency reinforces brand identity and creates a professional appearance. Using the same style across multiple formats improves recognition and trust.

Proofing Your Artwork

Review your design at 100% zoom before submission. Check for spelling errors, alignment issues, and unwanted objects outside the trim area. Print a test copy on a desktop printer if possible to check proportions and readability at scale. A careful proofing process reduces costly reprints.

By following these artwork instructions, you ensure that your designs are visually effective and production-ready. Combined with our File Preparation Guidelines, these steps give your projects the best chance of printing accurately and looking professional in final form.