File Guidelines for the Best Print Results


To help your project print as clearly and accurately as possible, we recommend preparing artwork using the guidelines below. If your file does not meet these standards, we can often still help, but additional prepress adjustments, proofing, or file corrections may be needed.

Whether you are a professional designer or sending us a simple file from Canva, PowerPoint, or another program, these recommendations will help avoid delays and improve print quality.


General File Recommendations


  • Submit files as high-quality PDF whenever possible
  • Include bleed when the piece will be trimmed
  • Keep all important text and logos safely inside the trim edge
  • Do not place crop marks, color bars, or other printer marks inside the final artwork area
  • Use high-resolution images
  • Avoid very thin lines that may disappear in print
  • Convert colors properly for print when needed


For Digital Print Jobs


Recommended for our HP Indigo 15K press

For smaller-format, close-view printed pieces such as brochures, flyers, postcards, booklets, folders, and premium marketing materials:

  • Image resolution: 300 dpi recommended, 225 dpi minimum
  • Bleed: 0.125" on all sides when trimming is required
  • Minimum line thickness: 0.25 pt
  • Maximum total ink coverage: 300%
  • Trim area: no unintended marks, objects, or printer marks inside the finished size
  • Best file type: press-ready PDF with embedded fonts and correct page size


These standards are especially important for premium digital print because pieces are often viewed up close, where softness, heavy ink, or fine-line problems are easier to see.


For Wide Format Print Jobs


Recommended for our Vutek wide-format equipment


For posters, signage, rigid boards, window graphics, banners, and other large-format products:

  • Close-view graphics: 100–150 dpi at final size recommended
  • Distance-view graphics: 72 dpi at final size is often acceptable
  • Text and logos: vector artwork is strongly preferred
  • Minimum line thickness: 0.5 pt
  • Bleed: depends on the finishing method and product type
  • Final artwork area: no unintended marks inside the finished size


Because wide-format products are often viewed from farther away, resolution requirements can vary depending on the application. Our team can help review your file if you are unsure.


Common File Problems That Can Affect Print Quality


Your file may need review if it contains:

  • Low-resolution images that may print blurry or pixelated
  • Very thin lines that may not reproduce clearly
  • Excessive ink coverage that can affect drying or appearance
  • Crop marks or other elements placed inside the finished artwork area
  • Incorrect page size, trim size, or missing bleed


Not Sure If Your File Is Ready?


No problem. Send it to us anyway.

Our prepress team reviews files before production and can let you know if anything needs attention. We are happy to help make sure your project prints beautifully.  Email: CustomerCare@execuprint.com