Print Prep Resources
Everything you need to prep files that move through production smoothly.
Print Prep Resources
Everything you need to prep files that move through production smoothly.
Quick Reference File Setup
Getting the technical details right up front makes the rest of your print project run more smoothly. Margins, bleeds, crop marks, resolution, and color settings may feel like small things, but they prevent problems like cut-off text, white edges, or unexpected color shifts. Use this quick reference as a checklist for the most important numbers to remember.
- Margins (Safe Zone): Keep important text and graphics at least 0.25″ inside the trim edge. For perfect bound books, allow 0.5″ at the binding edge.
- Bleeds: Extend background colors, photos, or graphics 0.125″ beyond the trim size on all sides, and be sure the bleed is included when exporting your PDF.
- Crop Marks: Offset crop marks by at least 0.125″ so they sit outside the bleed area.
- Resolution: Graphics and photos should be 300 dpi or higher at final size. Logos and line art should be vector files when possible.
- Color: Supply art in CMYK or spot colors (Pantone Solid Coated). Avoid RGB, as it won’t print as expected.
- Page Order: Odd pages typically appear on the right, even on the left, so plan chapter starts accordingly.
- File Formats: Preferred formats are PDF, Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop. Always include a PDF proof along with native files if sending packaged artwork.
- Fonts: Embed all fonts in your PDF. If sending packaged files, include font files as well.
Detailed Reference Articles
Want more detail than the quick reference can provide? Our Knowledge Base offers step-by-step articles to walk you through file setup. Some of the most popular include:
Templates
Our templates make creating artwork easy. Download the appropriate option and you’re ready to go! Or, if you need some help and guidance, our designers can help.
Using The Templates
- Keep your artwork on a separate layer from the template.
- Note the template bleed lines and supply a minimum bleed of 1/8”.
Transferring Files
We use Sharefile to send and receive large client documents. Please contact your project manager. They will provide you with detailed instructions and support to make it as easy as possible for you to get your files to us.
Color Charts
Choose from available stock colors for covers, dividers, tabs, and binders. These are for reference only and may look slightly different in print.
Whether you have an in-house design team that could use an extra set of hands with final formatting or you need full design support, we can help. Our print designers have decades of experience, specifically with conference materials. They can bring a piece to life that both reflects your brand and makes the content as user-friendly as possible.
Featured Content
Small file issues create production hiccups. This article shows the top pitfalls and how to avoid them so your project stays on schedule.
Recommended Content
Top Print Project Mistakes That Slow Things Down (and How to Avoid Them)
What slows down print projects the most? It’s usually not the big things, but the small details in file prep and communication. Our team shares the pitfalls they see every day — and the simple steps you can take to save time, money, and stress.
Read MorePrepress FAQs
If color or images touch the edge, add .125″ bleed. If everything stays inside the trim, you can skip bleed.
Screen previews hide low resolution. Use 300 ppi at final size for crisp results. Need additional help understanding images for print? Check out these articles.
Many books follow that convention. Add a blank page before the chapter if needed to keep titles on the right. For more help check out this article.
Use 100% K for small text to avoid registration issues. Reserve rich black for large solids. Not sure what we mean by 100% K? Check out this knowledge base article, RGB vs CMYK: Understanding Color for Print Projects for further guidance.
If a spec is tough to meet, reach out. Omnipress has over 40 years of experience and has seen just about everything. We’ll review your files, explain your options, and help you choose a practical solution that keeps quality high and your schedule on track.