How to Prepare Print-Ready Files for Professional Printing

When it comes to achieving high-quality results, setting up your artwork correctly is just as important as the printing itself. Whether you’re ordering business cards, flyers, brochures, or leaflet printing in Brighton, properly prepared files ensure your design prints exactly as intended.

At CM Print, we regularly support clients with artwork setup, and many common print issues can be avoided with a few simple steps.

What is Print-Ready Artwork?

Print-ready artwork is a file that meets all the technical requirements needed for professional printing. This means it’s already set up with the correct size, colour format, resolution, and bleed, so it can go straight to print without adjustments. Getting this right not only improves quality but also speeds up production and reduces the risk of errors.

Key Elements of Print-Ready Files

To ensure the best results from your Brighton printing services, your artwork should include:

Correct document size: Set your file to the final trim size from the start (e.g. A5 flyer, standard business card).

Bleed (3mm minimum): Extends your design beyond the edge to avoid white borders after trimming.

Safe margin: Keep text and important elements at least 3–5mm from the edge.

High resolution (300 DPI): Ensures crisp, clear images in print.

CMYK colour mode: The standard for all professional printing.

Fonts outlined or embedded: Prevents font errors during printing.

Why CMYK is So Important

One of the most overlooked areas is colour setup. Designs created in RGB (used for screens) can look very different when printed. CMYK ensures your colours are reproduced accurately across all printing in Brighton, from flyers and leaflets to brochures and posters.

Common Artwork Mistakes to Avoid

Even well-designed artwork can run into problems if not prepared correctly. Some of the most common issues we see include:

• Missing bleed or crop marks
• Low-resolution images
• Text placed too close to edges
• Incorrect colour settings
• Overly complex file formats

Taking a few extra minutes to check your file can prevent delays and reprints.

Need Help with Print-Ready Artwork?

If you’re unsure about any part of the process, our team is here to help. As experienced Brighton printers, we can check your artwork, make adjustments, or even create designs from scratch. From business cards and flyers to large-format printing, we ensure your files are perfectly prepared for high-quality results.

Get in touch with CM Print today for expert advice and reliable printing services across Brighton, Sussex, and the UK.