Professional Artwork Guidelines
Follow these specifications to ensure your designs print perfectly every time. Proper file preparation prevents delays and ensures professional results.
Need help preparing your files?
Our design team can review your artwork before submission to identify any potential issues. Contact us for professional file preparation services.
Color Requirements
RGB Color Mode
- For screens only (computers, phones, TVs)
- Uses Red, Green, Blue light combinations
- Not suitable for printing - will convert automatically with color shifts
- Can result in duller or unexpected colors in print
CMYK Color Mode
- Required for all printing
- Uses Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (black) inks
- Ensures accurate color reproduction
- Rich black formula: C50% M50% Y50% K100%
- For best results, design in CMYK from the start
File Specifications
| Format | Best For | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| All print products | Embed fonts, 300DPI, CMYK, include bleed | |
| JPEG | Photo prints | Maximum quality (100%), 300DPI, CMYK |
| AI/EPS | Vector graphics | Outline text, CMYK, save as PDF for best results |
| TIFF | High-res images | Uncompressed, 300DPI, CMYK |
| PSD | Layered designs | Flatten layers, 300DPI, CMYK |
Preparation Guidelines
Resolution & Bleed
- 300 DPI minimum for standard printing (150 DPI acceptable for large format)
- 3mm bleed required on all sides (extends beyond trim edge)
- Keep critical content 5mm from trim edge (safe zone)
- Extend background colors and images to bleed edge
Fonts & Text
- Convert all text to outlines or embed fonts
- Use high-contrast colors for readability
- Minimum 8pt font size for body text
- Triple-check spelling and grammar
Images & Graphics
- Use high-resolution images (300DPI at final size)
- Avoid web images (often 72DPI and compressed)
- Ensure proper color profile (CMYK for print)
- Verify copyright permissions for all assets
Pre-Submission Checklist
Large File Submission (>25MB)
For files larger than 25MB, please follow these instructions:
- Use WeTransfer, Dropbox, or Google Drive to upload your files
- Include your order number in the message
- Specify the exact product name and any special instructions
- Email the download link to: artwork@ellesi.co.za
Pro Tip: Compress folders as ZIP files to reduce size. Include all fonts and linked images.
Need Professional Assistance?
Our design team offers comprehensive artwork preparation services to ensure your files are print-ready:
- Artwork pre-flight checks
- File format conversion
- Bleed and margin setup
- Color correction and proofing
- Font embedding and outlining
- Resolution enhancement
Artwork Guidelines for Perfect Printing
Let's make sure your designs print exactly as you envision them
Professional Tip: Following these guidelines helps avoid delays and ensures top quality results.
Color Essentials
CMYK Color Mode RECOMMENDED
- Why it matters: CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) is the standard for all commercial printing
- Rich black formula: C50% M50% Y50% K100% for deep, neutral blacks
- Pro tip: Colors may look different on screen - we recommend a printed proof for color-critical work
Avoid RGB Mode
- Designed for screens (TVs, phones, monitors)
- Will convert to CMYK automatically with color shifts
- Can result in duller or unexpected colors in print
File Preparation
Resolution Requirements
- 300 DPI minimum for standard printing
- 150 DPI acceptable for large format (posters, banners)
- Low-resolution images will appear pixelated when printed
Bleed & Safe Zones
- 3mm bleed required on all sides
- Keep critical content 5mm from trim edge
- Extend background colors to bleed edge
PDF
Best for most jobs (embed fonts)
JPEG
Maximum quality, 300DPI
AI/EPS
Vector files (outline text)
Pre-Submission Checklist
✓ 300 DPI resolution confirmed
✓ CMYK color mode set
✓ 3mm bleed included
✓ All fonts outlined or embedded
✓ No low-resolution images
✓ Text proofread for errors
✓ Copyright permissions verified
Submitting Large Files
For files larger than 25MB:
- Use WeTransfer/Dropbox/Google Drive
- Include your order number in the message
- Specify the exact product name
- Email the link to: artwork@ellesi.co.za
Compress folders as ZIP files to reduce size
Need Help Preparing Files?
Our design team offers:
- Artwork pre-flight checks
- File format conversion
- Bleed and margin setup
- Color correction