Print File
What is a print file?
A print file is a digital design file used to create physical products through printing. In the print-on-demand world, this file includes artwork, text, or graphics intended for products like t-shirts, phone cases, or posters. To ensure high-quality results, print files must be properly formatted before being sent to production.
What formats are used for print files?
The most common format for print files is PDF, especially print-ready PDFs or press-ready PDFs, as they preserve layout, fonts, and color settings. Depending on the product, formats like PNG, JPG, or vector-based files (such as AI or SVG) may also be accepted.
For optimal print quality, files should:
- Be set to a resolution of at least 300 DPI
- Use CMYK color mode (instead of RGB) for accurate color output
- Include bleed and crop marks for clean trimming
- Be aligned to the product’s printable area or print area
What is a print-ready file?
A print-ready file is a version of the print file that’s fully prepared for production - no adjustments required. This includes final dimensions, color profiles, and flattened layers to avoid print errors. Print-ready files are essential in POD, where design speed and accuracy affect delivery time and product quality.
Want to learn more about how to prepare your artwork? Visit our guide on how to start an online store without inventory to see how professional mockups and print files come together in the design process.
What is a press-ready PDF?
A press-ready PDF goes one step further, meeting professional printing standards for commercial-grade results. These files include:
- Embedded fonts and high-res images
- CMYK color profiles with spot color support
- Defined bleed, trim, and safety margins
- Correct layout for multi-page documents (e.g., spread view for booklets)
These specifications ensure a seamless experience when printing high-detail products like custom posters or phone cases.