Last updated:  18-06-2026

This page explains how customers should prepare print-ready artwork before uploading files for DI PRINT orders.

 

1. Before uploading artwork

  • The product size is correct
  • The artwork size matches the product
  • The number of pages/sides is correct
  • Bleed is included where required
  • Important content is inside the safe area
  • Images are high quality
  • Fonts are embedded or outlined
  • The file is not password protected
  • The file is not corrupt
  • The design is final and ready to print

2. Accepted file types

We recommend uploading print-ready PDF files. Other formats may be accepted where supported by the product upload tool, but PDF is usually best for print.

3. Bleed

Bleed is the extra artwork area that extends beyond the final trim edge. Unless a product guide says otherwise, we recommend adding 3mm bleed on each outer edge.

4. Safe area

Keep important content away from the edge, including text, logos, QR codes, contact details, borders, icons, and important images. As a general rule, keep important content at least 3mm to 5mm away from the trim edge unless the product guide says otherwise.

5. Trim area

The trim area is where the printed product is cut to its final size. Small movement can happen during cutting. Avoid placing thin borders close to the edge because small trim movement can make them look uneven.

6. Colour setup

  • Use CMYK where possible
  • Avoid relying on screen colour only
  • Use high-quality images
  • Use consistent brand colours
  • Order a proof or sample where colour is critical

7. Image quality

  • Use high-resolution images
  • Avoid screenshots
  • Avoid images copied from social media
  • Avoid stretching small images
  • Check logos are sharp
  • Use vector logos where possible

8. Fonts and text

  • Embed or outline fonts
  • Check spelling and grammar
  • Check phone numbers and email addresses
  • Check URLs and QR codes
  • Check prices, dates, addresses, and social media handles

9. QR codes and barcodes

  • Test them before uploading
  • Keep them sharp
  • Do not place them too close to the edge
  • Use enough contrast
  • Avoid making them too small
  • Do not cover them with gloss, folds, or drill holes unless suitable

10. Page count and sides

Your artwork must match the selected product. A single-sided product usually needs 1 page, a double-sided product usually needs 2 pages, and folded leaflets or booklets need the correct page count and order.

11. File size

Large files may take longer to upload or process. Keep files clean and print-ready. Do not reduce quality too much because this can damage print results.

12. Transparent effects and layers

Transparency, shadows, gradients, and special effects can sometimes print differently. Flatten artwork where needed, check overprint settings, avoid hidden layers, and use print-ready PDF export settings.

13. Spot UV, foil, white ink, or special finishes

Some products need special artwork setup, such as separate pages, layers, or colours for Spot UV, foil, white ink, cut lines, crease lines, drill holes, or kiss-cut paths. Follow product-specific instructions where available.

14. Cut lines, drill holes, and custom shapes

If your product includes cutting, drilling, or custom shape options, make sure your design allows space for them. Do not place important content where holes, cuts, folds, or creases will appear.

15. Artwork checks

Our website may run automated checks for file format, page count, artwork size, basic bleed or dimension issues, print warnings, and proof availability. Automated checks do not guarantee that every issue will be found.

16. Digital proofs

If a digital proof is provided, review layout, page order, cropping, text, images, QR codes, important details, and overall design position. Approval means you confirm the artwork is ready for production.

17. Corrected artwork

If DiPrint uploads corrected artwork for your review, check that the file opens properly, the design is complete, no text or image is missing, the correction is acceptable, and the file is ready for print.

18. Replacing artwork

You may be able to replace artwork before the order is locked. If you replace artwork, the order may return to review, production may be delayed, delivery date may change, and new checks may be required.

19. Artwork responsibility

You are responsible for supplying artwork that is suitable for print. We are not responsible for issues that were present in the uploaded or approved artwork, including spelling mistakes, wrong details, low-quality images, missing bleed, incorrect sizing, or design errors.

20. Need help?

If you are unsure about your artwork, contact us before approval.

DI PRINT
Email: info@diprint.co.uk