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How to create and save full-bleed files with Canva.

Common templates for business cards, flyers and postcards.

Design Requirements for File Uploads

Design requirements for Offset Printing:

1. Bleed: Offset printing requires a bleed area in your design. This is an extra space around the edges of your artwork that extends beyond the final trim size. It ensures that there are no white borders or gaps when the paper is trimmed after printing. Generally, a bleed of 0.125 inches (3mm) is recommended.

2. Color Mode: Offset printing typically requires artwork to be in CMYK color mode, representing the four-color printing process (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black). Convert your artwork to CMYK to ensure accurate color reproduction.

3. Resolution: For high-quality offset printing, images and graphics should have a resolution of 300 dots per inch (dpi) or higher. This ensures sharp and detailed prints.

4. Fonts: Embed or outline all fonts used in your design to avoid any font-related issues during printing. This ensures that your text appears as intended and eliminates the need for font substitution.

5. File Format: Submit your artwork in a print-ready format such as a full-bleed PDF. This preserve the quality and integrity of your design elements.

 

Design requirements for Digital Printing:

1. Bleed: Similar to offset printing, digital printing also requires a bleed area in your design to account for any slight shifts during printing and trimming. Follow the recommended bleed specifications provided by your printing service provider. Generally, a bleed of 0.125 inches (3mm) is recommended.

2. Color Mode: Digital printing works well with both CMYK and RGB color modes. However, it is advisable to check with your printing service provider for their preferred color mode to ensure accurate color representation.

3. Resolution: For digital printing, a resolution of 300 dpi is recommended for images and graphics. This ensures clear and crisp prints, similar to offset printing.

4. Fonts: As with offset printing, embed or outline all fonts to ensure that they appear correctly in your printed materials.

5. File Format: Submit your artwork in a print-ready format such as a full-bleed PDF. This preserve the quality and integrity of your design elements.

It's essential to communicate with your printing service provider and follow their specific design guidelines and recommendations. They will provide you with the necessary specifications and guidelines to ensure that your designs are optimized for the chosen printing method.

Canva Users

If you are designing with Canva, follow the instructions provided on our Canva page.