Digital Printing Design Guide
Optimizing Your Designs for Perfect Prints
Examples of print-ready design files and considerations

Achieving high-quality digital prints starts with well-prepared artwork. This guide provides essential tips for designing and submitting files for Inventex Labs' digital printing services.

File Formats & Resolution

  • Preferred Formats: We recommend submitting print-ready PDF files. We also accept high-resolution JPG, PNG, TIFF, AI, and EPS files.
  • Resolution: For optimal print quality, ensure raster images (like photos) are at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) at the final print size. Vector graphics are ideal for logos and text as they can be scaled without loss of quality.
  • Flatten Artwork: If possible, flatten layers in your design software before exporting to PDF to avoid font or layer issues.

Color Mode & Bleed

  • Color Mode: Design your artwork in CMYK color mode for most print projects. If RGB is used, colors may shift during conversion to CMYK. For specific spot colors (Pantone), please specify them.
  • Bleed: If your design extends to the edge of the printed piece, include a bleed area (typically 3mm or 0.125 inches) on all sides. This ensures no white edges appear after trimming.
  • Safe Zone: Keep important text and graphics within a safe zone (typically 3-5mm or 0.125-0.2 inches from the trim edge) to prevent them from being cut off.

Text and Fonts

  • Convert to Outlines: Convert all text and fonts to outlines (or paths/curves) before submitting your file. This prevents font substitution issues if we don't have the specific font you used.
  • Minimum Font Size: Ensure text is legible. Avoid very small font sizes, especially for fine print or on textured materials.
  • Rich Black: For large areas of solid black, use a "rich black" CMYK mix (e.g., C:60 M:40 Y:40 K:100) instead of just K:100 for a deeper, more saturated black.

Proofing

We may provide a digital proof for your approval before proceeding with full production, especially for large orders or complex designs. Please review proofs carefully for any errors in content, layout, and color.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your digital printing projects are produced accurately and to the highest quality. If you have any questions or need assistance with file preparation, please contact our support team.