Printing Checklist
Resolution
Resolution is the number of dots that fit horizontally and vertically into a one-inch space. It is measured as DPI (Dots Per Inch) or PPI (Pixels Per Inch). The more dots per inch, the higher the resolution resulting in an image that is sharper and has more detail.
The image resolution must be at least 300 dots per inch (DPI) at the final output size for each of the images submitted with your print job. This will ensure that the images will print properly and will not appear blurred or pixelated.
CMYK Color Mode
A file must must be in CMYK color mode to be a print-ready file. If the file(s) are submitted using any other color mode, such as RGB or Pantone, the file(s) will be converted to CMYK during the preflight stage. Color shifts or colors dropping out may occur during conversion from one color mode to another. We recommend that customers prepare and save their files in CMYK color mode prior to submitting and uploading their files.
You can request a hardcopy proof to view the accuracy of the color of your artwork before going to press.
Bleeds
Bleeds are required when art or an image extends to the edge (Trim Line) so there is no continuous white border on that edge. Extend the art or image 1/8" (0.125") past the edge to allow for trimming. For example, a 5” x 7” postcard with full-bleed on all sides should be submitted at 5.25” x 7.25” (an 1/8" of artwork should be extended on all sides). If you’re using a Blue Bee Printing template, it will be indicated by the Bleed area (light blue shaded area).
The reason is that 1/8" (0.125") of each side of the card will be cut off during the trimming process. This will leave a 5” x 7” standard-size postcard.
Any text should be placed 1/8" (0.125") away from the Trim Line. If you’re using a Blue Bee Printing template, it will be indicated by the Safety Area (blue dashed line). This will guarantee that your text will not be cut off from your artwork.
All Blue Bee Printing templates will indicate the Safety Area, Trim Line and Bleed area.
Borders
When using a border in your artwork, please leave a minimum of 1/4" (0.25") of white space from your border to the Trim Line to maintain a symmetric appearance. As with most trimming processes, a mechanical tolerance of about 1/16" (0.0625) exists for all printed materials.
If your border bleeds off the edges of your artwork, please maintain a border width of 1/4" (0.25"). Extend the border another 1/8" (0.125") to accommodate the bleed for a total border thickness of 3/8" (0.375").
Fonts and Transparency
Transparencies and other effects can produce problems such as text or graphics dropping out of your artwork. To prevent this problem from occuring, artwork produced in Illustrator and InDesign must be flattened with the fonts outlined.
Saving Photoshop Files
See our video on how to save your Photoshop file for print.