Quick Tip: Exporting Checklist for Print

1. Save a backup file.

2. Bleed and crop marks. The bleed is the printed content that extends beyond the edges of the printed file. Bleeds are important because it helps avoid any artifacts from the printing process. Average bleed is 0.125” on all sides. Crop Marks are the horizontal and vertical hairlines that define where to trim after printing.

3. Clean up layers. Clean up any unused layers and organize layers. Tidying up layers is helpful for handoffs between the printer and other designers. Some files live for years. So making sure layers are self-descriptive is helpful for longevity. Ideally, a file never needs the designer around to describe its details.

4. Text outlines. Convert text to outlines to avoid font errors when opening the raw file. It converts the font to an image.

5. Correct colors. Double check color panel for correct color space ie. CMYK, spot colors.

6. Flatten images. If needed, flatten layers to compress any transparency when exporting a PDF.

7. Save another backup file for exporting.

8. Export an Pdf and raw file. A PDF file is universally accepted file for printers.

9. Print test before sending file.