# How to Prepare Artwork for Printing | Promax Help Center

> A simple guide to print-ready artwork: bleed, resolution, CMYK colour, fonts and file types. Avoid common mistakes before you send files to print.

Source: https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/prepare-artwork-for-printing/
Updated: 2026-10-06

---

1.  [Home](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/)
2.  [Guides](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/guides/)
3.  [Help center](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/)
4.  How to prepare artwork for printing

Help center

# How to prepare artwork for printing

Send a PDF in CMYK colour, with 3 mm bleed, images at 300 dpi and fonts turned into outlines. Keep important text at least 3 to 5 mm inside the edge. If you are not sure, send what you have and we will check it for free.

Quick answer

Send a PDF in CMYK colour, with 3 mm bleed, images at 300 dpi and fonts turned into outlines. Keep important text at least 3 to 5 mm inside the edge. If you are not sure, send what you have and we will check it for free.

1.  1Set the right sizeCreate your file at the final trim size, such as A4 (210 x 297 mm) or a business card (90 x 55 mm).
2.  2Add 3 mm bleedExtend backgrounds and images 3 mm past the edge. This stops white lines after cutting.
3.  3Keep text inside the safe areaKeep text and logos 3 to 5 mm inside the trim edge so nothing is cut off.
4.  4Use CMYK colourPrinters use cyan, magenta, yellow and black. Colours from RGB screens can look different in print.
5.  5Check image qualityUse images at 300 dpi at the printed size. Small web images look soft in print.
6.  6Outline or embed fontsTurn fonts into outlines or embed them in the PDF so the text does not change.
7.  7Export a PDFExport a high quality PDF. Send us the file and we will check it.

## Why artwork preparation matters

Most print problems start in the file, not on the press. A few simple checks save time and money. They also give you better colour and sharper edges.

## Common mistakes

-   **No bleed.** A thin white line can show at the edge after cutting.
-   **Low resolution images.** Pictures copied from websites often look blurry in print.
-   **Text too close to the edge.** It can be cut off.
-   **RGB colour.** Bright screen colours may look duller in print.
-   **Missing fonts.** The text can change if fonts are not embedded.

## File types we like

A print-ready PDF is best. We can also work with Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and high quality PNG or JPG files. A logo as a vector file (AI, EPS or PDF) gives the cleanest result.

## Need design help?

If you do not have artwork, we can create it. Send your logo, text and ideas and we will prepare a layout and a free digital proof.

FAQ

## Frequently asked questions

### What is bleed in printing?

Bleed is extra background that goes 3 mm past the final edge. It makes sure there is no white line after the paper is cut.

### What resolution should my images be?

Use 300 dpi at the final printed size for sharp results.

### Can I send a Word or PowerPoint file?

Yes, but a PDF is safer. We can also rebuild the layout for you.

Free quote

## Ready to start?

Not sure? Send us your idea and we will guide you.

 [WhatsApp](https://wa.me/971527105556?text=Hi%20Promax%20Digital%2C%20I%20would%20like%20a%20quote%20for%20my%20printing%20project.)[ +971 52 710 5556](tel:+971527105556)

-   Free digital proof
-   Low minimums
-   Delivery across the UAE

## More guides

-   [How to place an order](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/how-to-place-an-order/)
-   [Paper types and weights (gsm)](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/paper-types-and-weights/)
-   [Printing finishes: lamination, UV, foil and emboss](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/printing-finishes-guide/)
-   [Packaging box types explained](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/packaging-box-types/)

## Tell us what you need. Get your quote today.

Share your product, size and quantity. We reply with a clear quote and a free digital proof.

 [WhatsApp us](https://wa.me/971527105556?text=Hi%20Promax%20Digital%2C%20I%20would%20like%20a%20quote%20for%20my%20printing%20project.) [ +971 52 710 5556](tel:+971527105556)