How to Prepare Your Files for Printing

The single most common reason a print job gets delayed is a file that is not set up correctly. Wrong resolution, wrong colour mode, missing bleed - these issues are easy to avoid once you know what to look for. Here is what our team at Sandstar needs from you to produce clean, accurate results.

What Resolution Do Print Files Need?

Print files must be at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) at the final output size. A file that looks sharp on screen at 72 DPI will print soft and blurry. This is the most common mistake we see.

If you are scaling artwork up, resolution gets worse. Always set up your file at the finished size from the start rather than designing small and enlarging later.

Should You Use CMYK or RGB?

Always use CMYK colour mode for print files. Screens display colour using RGB (red, green, blue light), but commercial printers use CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black ink). Converting from RGB to CMYK at the print stage can shift colours noticeably, especially bright blues and greens.

Set your file to CMYK in your design application before you start work. If you receive a file from a designer and are unsure of the colour mode, we can check it for you before printing.

What Is Bleed and Why Does It Matter?

Bleed is extra artwork that extends beyond the edge of your final trim size. When a printed piece is cut to size, there is a small margin of error in the cutting equipment. Without bleed, you risk a thin white border appearing at the edge of your print.

The standard bleed for most print jobs is 0.125 inches (1/8 inch) on all sides. Extend any background colours or images to the bleed edge. Keep important text and logos inside the safe zone, at least 0.125 inches from the trim edge.

What File Formats Does Sandstar Accept?

We prefer print-ready files in the following formats:

• PDF — best for most print jobs; preserves fonts, colours, and layout
• AI (Adobe Illustrator) — preferred for vector artwork and logos
• EPS — widely compatible vector format
• PNG or TIFF — acceptable for raster images at 300 DPI minimum

Avoid submitting Word documents, PowerPoint files, or low-resolution JPEGs exported from websites. These require rework and add time to your order.

What If Your Files Are Not Print-Ready?

Send them anyway. We review every file before we print and will let you know if something needs to be corrected. If adjustments are minor, we can often handle them in-house. For larger design work, our team offers logo and graphic design services to get your artwork exactly right.

Also worth reading: Screen Printing vs. Embroidery: Which Should You Choose? and Why Custom Signage Is a Smart Investment for Saskatoon Businesses.