File prep guide
Send one print-ready PDF per job. Use bleed, keep text inside the safe zone, export CMYK when possible, and embed fonts.
Bleed
Add 0.125 in bleed on most products; business cards use 0.0625 in.
Safe zone
Keep important text and logos at least 0.125 in inside trim.
Color
CMYK is preferred. Rich blacks and brand colors are reviewed before print.
Images
Use 300 dpi artwork at final size for crisp output.
Product notes
3.5 × 2 in card → export at 3.625 × 2.125 in with 0.0625 in bleed, CMYK, 300 dpi.
Add 0.125 in bleed on all sides, keep text 0.125 in inside the trim, CMYK, 300 dpi.
Export at your trim size + 0.125 in bleed, CMYK, 300 dpi. Keep critical content out of the margins.
Set up panels for your fold (panel widths differ for tri/gate folds). Add 0.125 in bleed, CMYK, 300 dpi.
Export single pages (not spreads), page count a multiple of 4 for saddle-stitch, 0.125 in bleed, CMYK.
Black-and-white line art prints sharpest on NCR. Keep numbering zones clear; supply at 100% size.
Leave a clear address area per USPS specs. We validate and standardize addresses (CASS/NCOA) before mailing.