Getting Started: Supplying Print-Ready PDF Files

What is a print-ready PDF?

A print-ready PDF is a final export of your artwork or book layout that is prepared specifically for printing. It should be set up to the correct size, include bleed where required, and use appropriate colour settings.

Once a file is considered print-ready, it should not require further design changes before printing. Any changes made after this stage may affect pricing or turnaround time.

Page size and trim

Your PDF must be supplied at the final trimmed size of the book or document.

For example:

• A5 book: 210 × 148 mm

• Novel format: 198 × 129 mm

• A4 booklet: 297 × 210 mm

The page size in the PDF should match the finished size exactly, not the sheet size it will be printed on.

Bleed and margins

If your design includes colour, images, or elements that run to the edge of the page, bleed is required.

• Standard bleed: 3 mm on all sides

• Keep important text and logos at least 10–15 mm away from the trim edge

• Avoid placing page numbers or text too close to the spine

Bleed allows for small variations in trimming and ensures clean edges on the finished product.

Colour setup

For printed work, files should normally be supplied in CMYK, not RGB.

• RGB is used for screens

• CMYK is used for printing

If files are supplied in RGB, colours may shift during conversion. For mono (black and white) interiors, ensure text is set to 100% black where possible.

If colour accuracy is critical, let us know before submitting files so we can advise.

Fonts and images

To avoid missing elements or unexpected substitutions:

• All fonts should be embedded in the PDF

• Images should be a minimum of 300 dpi at final size

• Avoid low-resolution images taken from the web

Flattening transparency and exporting a final PDF helps prevent issues at the printing stage.

Page order and file setup

Unless advised otherwise, files should be supplied as:

• Single pages (not printer spreads)

• Pages in reading order

• Finalised content with no placeholders

Cover files are usually supplied separately from the text pages and may have different requirements depending on binding type.

Common mistakes to avoid

Some of the most frequent issues we see include:

• Incorrect page size

• Missing bleed

• Low-resolution images

• RGB colour files

• Editable files supplied instead of PDFs

• Late content changes after approval

Catching these early helps keep your project on schedule.

If you’re unsure

If you’re not confident that your files are fully print-ready, that’s fine.

You can submit what you have, and we’ll review the files and flag anything that needs attention before production. It’s always better to ask early than to correct issues once printing has started.

Next steps

Once your files are ready:

• Submit them with your quote request

• Include any notes or questions about format or binding

• We’ll confirm specifications before anything goes to press

This approach helps ensure accurate pricing, predictable turnaround, and a smooth production process.