Print File Preparation: 9 Things to Check Before Sending Files to a China Printer
Once you have finished your design and checked everything twice. Then, you’re ready to send it for printing. But before you click Send, we recommend you to take a few minutes to review your files.
Minor errors such as the use of wrong color mode, missing fonts, and low image quality can affect the final print result. Fortunately, these mistakes can be easily prevented.
Here are the most important things to check before sending a print file to a Chinese printing company:
1. Use Professional Design Software
The software you use makes a big difference in the finish.
To get the best print results, create a file with professional design software such as Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Photoshop.
Microsoft Word is ideal for document creation, but it is not designed for professional printing. Often the layout is out, the font changes, and the color is not printed as expected.
2. Make Sure Your Colors Are CMYK
Computer screens display colors in RGB, but commercial printing presses use CMYK. If your artwork stays in RGB, the printed colors may look very different from what you saw on your screen.
So before sending your files, convert everything to CMYK so your printed colors are much closer to your design.
3. Use High-Resolution Images
Image quality is just as important as color. For sharp, professional printing, all images should be 300 dpi or higher.
While low-resolution images may look fine on a screen. But they often appear blurry or pixelated once printed.
4. Check That Black Text Is Pure Black
This is a fine point that many people tend to overlook. In some cases, black text is created using all four colors of CMYK instead of 100% black (K).
If so, the text may appear slightly blurred after printing, or fine color edges may appear.
In normal body text, always use 100% K (pure black) to keep the characters clear and readable.
5. Include All Linked Images and Fonts
When using InDesign or Illustrator, images are usually linked instead of saved in a file.
In other words, you need to send:
- All linked image files.
- All fonts used in the design (unless you’ve converted them to outlines).
If anything is missing, the printer may not be able to open your file correctly, which can delay production.
6. Send Photoshop Files with Layers
If the design is created in Photoshop, it is recommended to send the original PSD file so that all layers remain intact.
Leaving layers behind allows pre-presses to make flexible tweaks as needed. This saves time and prevents unnecessary email interaction.
7. Convert Special Fonts to Outlines
Using custom fonts can cause problems.
If the printer does not have the same font installed, the text may be replaced by another font or become unreadable.
To prevent this, convert important text to an outline (or curve) before sending a file. This allows you to maintain the look as the text was designed.
If your project contains additional files or graphics, please send them as well.
8. Share Your Printing Requirements Clearly
Don’t forget to tell your printer exactly what you need.
Include details like:
- Finished size
- Print quantity
- Paper type
- Any special finishing requirements
The more information you provide, the easier it is for the printer to prepare your job correctly and avoid delays.
9. Save Time on Similar Pages
If you use the same image or background but print multiple pages with different black text, there is a simpler way.
Instead of exporting all pages in full CMYK, you can: Export the first page in full CMYK. The remaining pages are exported by changing only the black (K) text.
This allows us to improve processing speed while maintaining excellent print quality.
Final Words
Make sure the color is in CMYK format, the resolution of the image is high, the font is printed compatible, and all linked files are included. In addition, let’s tell the printer the clear production details from the beginning.
By making these simple confirmations can ensure that the printed material is as designed.
If you have any questions about file settings, please do not hesitate to contact the printer before ordering. Now, by asking a simple question, you can prevent expensive mistakes afterwards.
Common Print File Preparation Mistakes
– RGB instead of CMYK
– Missing bleed
– Images below 300 dpi
– Missing fonts
– Incorrect page size
FAQ
What is print file preparation?
It is the process of checking artwork, colors, fonts, bleed, and resolution before commercial printing.
Should I convert RGB to CMYK?
Yes. Commercial printing uses CMYK for accurate color reproduction.
What image resolution is recommended?
300 dpi or higher.
Need Help Preparing Your Print Files?
Looking for reliable book printing in China? Our experienced team can help you review your files before production to ensure professional printing results. Our prepress team can review your files before production. Request a Free Quote: https://www.chinabookprinter.com/contact-quote/