Artwork Setup for
Large Format Print
Get perfect print results every time. Follow these guidelines when preparing your artwork, or send what you have and we'll help you get it print-ready.
Preferred File Types
For optimal results
PDF Preferred
Print-ready, high quality, easiest to check
AI / EPS
Ideal for vector artwork (logos, text, shapes)
PSD / TIFF / JPEG
Accepted for image-based designs
⚠️ Note: Microsoft files (Word/PowerPoint) may shift fonts/spacing. PDF is always best.
Artwork Size & Scale
Getting dimensions right
Please supply artwork at full size wherever possible.
If you can't work at full size, you can supply at a scaled size (e.g., 1:10), but please make it clear what the scale is so we print it correctly.
Bleed & Safe Area
⚠️ Critical
Large format print often gets trimmed, hemmed, or finished — we need space to work.
Bleed
Add at least 3–5mm for trimmed items
Safe Area
Keep important text/logos 10–20mm from edges
For banners with hems/eyelets, allow extra safe space
Resolution
Print sharp every time
Recommended settings:
Close viewing • Retail • Indoor • Exhibitions
Distance viewing • Billboards • Outdoor signage
💡 Tip: Scaled files need higher DPI to compensate
Colour Setup
Accurate colour matching
Set artwork to CMYK where possible
RGB files work but colours may shift during conversion
For brand-critical colours, provide Pantone references
💡 Tip: Screens are backlit, prints aren't — some difference is normal. Ask about proofs for critical work.
Fonts & Text
Avoid font issues
Outline fonts to curves
Recommended method
Embed fonts in PDF
Alternative option
Include font files
For AI/PSD files (if licensing allows)
⚡ Pro tip: Keep text bold and simple for distance viewing — thin fonts get lost at scale
Images & Logos
Quality matters
High-quality images
Avoid screenshots or social media images
Vector logos preferred
AI/EPS/PDF format, not small JPEGs
Avoid tiny text on images
Becomes unreadable when printed
Finishing Allowances
Banners, eyelets, hems
If your job includes finishing, your artwork needs space for it:
Banners (typical):
💡 Pro tip: Tell us finishing requirements upfront — we'll confirm correct margins before printing
Not Sure If Your Files Are Ready?
Send them over and we'll help you get them print-ready. We'd rather catch issues early than waste your time and money on reprints.
Contact Us Today