Common Print Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Supplying files that aren’t final

One of the most frequent issues in print production is files being supplied before they are truly final. This often happens when content is still being edited or when last-minute changes are expected after submission.

Once a file is approved for print, any changes usually require re-checking, re-proofing, and sometimes reprocessing. This can affect both turnaround time and cost.

Avoiding this is simple but important. Only submit files when content, pagination, and layout are complete, and treat the approved version as the final version.

Incorrect page size

Artwork is sometimes supplied at the wrong size, such as a document set up at A4 when the finished book is intended to be A5.

Resizing files after layout can affect margins, page flow, and image quality. It can also introduce unexpected layout issues that need correcting before printing.

Ensuring the document is set up at the correct final trim size from the beginning helps avoid unnecessary rework later.

Missing bleed on full-bleed designs

Designs that include colour or images running to the edge of the page require bleed. Without it, white edges can appear after trimming.

This is a very common issue, particularly for covers and image-heavy pages. It often isn’t noticed until files are reviewed for print.

Including bleed at the artwork stage and extending backgrounds fully into that bleed area avoids this problem entirely.

Placing important content too close to the edge

Text, page numbers, and logos placed too close to the trim edge can end up looking cramped or may be partially trimmed away.

This is especially important near the spine of bound books, where content can disappear into the binding if margins are too tight.

Keeping important elements comfortably within the safe area ensures the finished book remains readable and visually balanced.

RGB files supplied for print

Files designed for screen use are often created in RGB colour mode. While these can be converted for printing, the results are not always predictable.

Colours may appear duller, darker, or different from what was expected. This is particularly noticeable with bright or highly saturated colours.

Supplying artwork in CMYK where possible helps maintain better control over printed colour.

Low-resolution images

Images taken from websites or social media often look fine on screen but are not suitable for print. When printed, these images can appear soft, pixelated, or blurry.

Ensuring images are supplied at an appropriate resolution for print helps maintain quality and avoids disappointment with the finished result.

Fonts not embedded or missing

If fonts are not embedded correctly in a PDF, they may substitute or change when files are processed for print. This can alter spacing, line breaks, and overall layout.

Embedding fonts during PDF export or outlining them where appropriate helps ensure the artwork prints exactly as intended.

Incorrect spine width on covers

Book covers require accurate spine widths based on page count and paper thickness. If the spine width is incorrect, text may be misaligned or wrap onto the front or back cover.

Spine width should always be calculated once page count and paper choice are confirmed. Small changes in page count can make a visible difference.

Overcomplicating finishes

It’s easy to be tempted by multiple finishing options such as foil, embossing, and spot UV. While these finishes can enhance a design, combining too many can overwhelm the cover or introduce unnecessary complexity.

Choosing one or two finishes that support the design usually produces a stronger and more refined result.

Underestimating turnaround time

Print production involves multiple stages, including file checking, printing, finishing, and delivery. Underestimating how long these steps take can lead to unrealistic deadlines.

Providing files early and allowing reasonable production time helps ensure quality isn’t compromised.

How to avoid most issues

The simplest way to avoid print problems is to approach the process with clarity and communication.

Confirm specifications early, supply final files, allow for checks and proofs, and ask questions if something is unclear. Small conversations early on often prevent larger issues later.

If something goes wrong

Even with careful preparation, issues can occasionally arise. When they do, addressing them early and openly makes them easier to resolve.

Flagging concerns before printing begins is always preferable to correcting problems after production.

Final thoughts

Most print mistakes are preventable. Understanding how print production works, even at a basic level, helps ensure smoother projects and better outcomes.

This guide is designed to help you approach print with confidence rather than caution.

Related guides

You may also find these articles helpful:

• Supplying Print-Ready PDF Files

• Bleed Explained

• Trim and Margins Explained

• CMYK Colour Setup Explained