Prepress

Bleed, Margins?

What is Bleed?
Bleed is the extension of an image or color background that goes beyond the final trim area of the printed piece, ensuring that there are no visible white edges on the trimmed print.

Why do we need Bleed?
Bleed is necessary to avoid unwanted white edges on the final trimmed print. Since paper is a flat material made of wood pulp, it can slightly stretch (moisture + pressure from the rollers) or shrink (heat) during printing. When printing on both sides, there is a possibility that the printed side B may be slightly larger or smaller (up to 0.5 mm) due to paper deformation. Since we print on larger sheets, the print is trimmed to the final format on a cutting machine, where printed sheets are inserted in bundles up to 12 cm high and cut to the final format according to trim marks. During paper cutting, slight shifting (called "paper shifting") may occur, which is a completely normal phenomenon. If we don't use bleed and print the file without it, there is a high likelihood that the final print will have unwanted white edges. Therefore, we need the bleed extension.

When to use Bleed?
Bleed is mandatory for all printed pieces unless the graphic elements or color backgrounds do not touch the trim edge or are at least 3 mm away from it.

How much Bleed?
According to industry standards, the bleed for all printed pieces should be between 1-3 mm (exceptions are covers for hard binding). In Demago print shop, our standard for printing on sheets is +3 mm on each side, and for printing labels from rolls, we use 1.5 mm on each side.

What are Margins?
Margins refer to the safe area around the edges of the print (top, bottom, left, and right). In other words, it is the safe space where graphic elements can be placed.

Why do we need Margins?
The reasons for adhering to the safe area are the same as for the bleed (paper deformation, paper shifting during trimming). If you don't follow this rule, graphic elements on the trimmed print may not be centered, and in the worst case, they may be cut off.

When to use Margins?
Always! No matter what printed piece you are designing, you must keep this in mind, so be sure to place graphic elements such as text, images, and logos at least 3-5 mm away from the trim edges.

How much?
According to graphic standards, the safe area for single-page prints should be at least 3-5 mm from the trim edge (recommended 5 mm!). For multi-page printed pieces that require binding, the safe area can be increased up to 20 mm! For precise details, please refer to the "File Preparation - Multi-page Printed Pieces" section.

What is Trim line, Slug line, Crop marks, Gutter?

What is Trim Line?
The Trim Line is the line along which the print will be cut. From the Trim Box data, we can also determine the final cut size of the printed piece in mm.

What is a Slug Line?
The Slug Line is typically used for short messages intended for the printer during the printing or finishing stages. These are usually brief notes or warnings (e.g., desired paper grain direction, creasing or perforation marks, Pantone 4525 for heat printing with gold foil, etc.). The Slug Line is removed in the preparation stage for printing and is not printed!

What is a Gutter?
The Gutter is most commonly used when designing covers or bindings for brochures or hardcover books. When we have information about the spine thickness, we can simply input it, and the program will create horizontal lines indicating the spine thickness. This tool is also often used when designing publications where there is a need for an organized layout of two or three columns on one page.

What are Crop Marks?
Crop Marks indicate exactly where the print will be trimmed, so please take this into account when preparing the file for printing!

Resolution and image quality

What is resolution and image quality?
The terms "image resolution" and "image quality" are often used interchangeably, but they can have different meanings in different contexts. The usage and interpretation of these terms depend on the specific area in which they are applied.

When we talk about image resolution, the term refers to the number of pixels in the image, measured horizontally and vertically. For example, an image with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels means that the image has 1920 pixels horizontally and 1080 pixels vertically.

Image resolution encompasses more factors than just the number of pixels, and it is often used to describe the image quality or the ability of a camera or screen to capture or display detail. For instance, a high-resolution camera means it can capture more detail in an image, but this does not necessarily mean the image has more pixels; it’s more about its ability to capture detail.

If you have a digital camera that captures images with a resolution of 4000 x 3000 pixels, the image has 4000 pixels horizontally and 3000 pixels vertically, giving a total of 12 million pixels. More pixels allow for more detail and greater image zoom without losing sharpness.

Resolution refers to the level of detail or sharpness of a digital image displayed on a monitor or printed on a printing press. In both cases, the image is made up of small dots or points called pixels. A higher pixel count means higher resolution and typically better image quality.

The standard unit for measuring monitor resolution is pixels per inch (PPI), while for printed images, it’s dots per inch (DPI). It’s important to understand that PPI refers to digital images, while DPI refers to printing devices. In some cases, these terms may be used interchangeably, but it’s essential to understand the context in which they are used!

300 dpi - High Resolution
High-resolution (Hi-res) images are images with a high amount of data and are the standard for print. These are quality high-resolution photographs with a resolution of 300 dpi, ensuring sharp and clear print. Images with resolutions higher than 300 dpi are generally suitable for printing, and the final print result will be the same! Hi-res images are usually original images created with professional photography equipment. You can find high-quality photos for a fee on specialized platforms, but make sure to use them in accordance with copyright and licensing rules. High-quality images typically have a TIFF file extension and are created from raw images (RAW).

200 dpi - Medium Resolution
If you want to print images with resolutions between 150 and 200 dpi and do not have higher resolution images, the final print result will still be acceptable, so you can safely use them in the print file. Typically, we reduce resolution from 300 dpi to 150 dpi when printing larger images (e.g., 100x70 cm) to reduce file size. For large print jobs with many photographs, reducing them to 200 dpi will not affect the print quality. It’s important to understand that you can safely reduce a 300 dpi image to 150 dpi, but increasing a 150 dpi image back to 300 dpi is incorrect.

72 dpi - Low Resolution
Most images published online or on social media are reduced to a resolution of 72 dpi or lower for faster loading. As mentioned, this resolution is sufficient for displaying images on a screen, but unfortunately, these images are not suitable for printing!

Raster or vector image?

What is a Vector Image?
Unlike raster images, which are made up of pixels, vector images are displayed using mathematical formulas and consist of geometric shapes, such as lines and curves. The main characteristics of vector images are small file size and infinite scalability without losing image clarity and sharpness. Vector files with extensions EPS, AI, CDR, PDF, and SVG are created and edited using software (Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW). These types of files are most suitable for creating logos and graphics that we want to use at various sizes or magnifications.

What is a Raster Image?
A raster image - Bitmap is made up of pixels that form the entire image. The most common types of raster images are JPG, JPEG, GIF, TIFF, and PNG, and they are used online or in printed materials. Images intended for web use are usually in lower resolution (72 dpi) for faster loading and appear clear and high quality on the screen. However, if we want to use a 72 dpi image from the web for printing, we might be disappointed with its print quality. For quality printing, images with a resolution of 300 dpi are used, which is a much higher pixel density than what is used on the web. In other words, the dimensions of a 72 dpi image are perfect for display on the web, but for high-quality printing, we need a resolution of 300 dpi, which is four times more!

Standard Black, Rich black, Registration Black?

Black is one of the most commonly used colors in printing. However, you need to know that there are two types of black used in printing: "Standard" black and "Rich Black" or "Enhanced" black. Standard black (Standard Black) and Rich Black (Enhanced Black) may appear the same on the monitor, but not in print!

Registration Black
Registration black is composed of 100% C, 100% M, 100% Y, and 100% K, and should never be used in a print file because the color coverage is too high and will cause problems during printing. Registration Black is reserved for printing crop marks!

Rich Black
Enhanced or Rich Black is made up of four process colors. By printing all four colors, we achieve a deep and saturated black color. Rich Black is composed of all four process colors: C 40%, M 30%, Y 30%, and K 100%. This gives you a rich black without excessive color coverage. Use deep black whenever you have larger black areas or blocks in the file.

Standard Black
Standard black is made up of just one color (100% K). In color printing, Standard Black is typically used for printing text or fonts smaller than 20 pt and never for large areas or blocks. 100% K is also suitable for printing thin vector lines. The minimum line thickness can be 0.25 pt or 0.1 mm!

Text
Black text or fonts smaller than 20 pt should always be created using just black (C=0%, M=0%, Y=0%, K=100%), and never from all four colors, as this can cause color registration shifts during printing (ghosting). Ghosting is a normal printing phenomenon that occurs due to material contraction during the color separation printing process. The font size should not be smaller than 6 pt! Fonts should always be vectorized, so create them in suitable programs (AI, ID, COREL...).

The image on the right shows an enlarged letter M. If the color of the letter is made from process colors, a slight shift in color registration can easily occur during printing (in our case, the yellow color is slightly misaligned). The third image shows a letter that is printed as an image (such files are usually created in Photoshop, which is of course incorrect).

RGB, CMYK, RGB vs CMYK, Colour Gamut?

What is color?
Color, as we know it, is made up of light with different wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation. In essence, colors appear as a result of the interaction between light, objects, and the observer, forming the visible color spectrum. Simply put, color is created by light reflecting off objects around us. Regardless of the light source, the perception of color is a very personal experience. It is unlikely that people perceive or see colors exactly the same way. Based on scientific experiments, it is estimated that the human eye can see about 16 million different color shades.

Additive Color System - RGB
This is a way of mixing colors where different color components are combined by adding light. This color system consists of red, green, and blue. Combining all three colors in equal amounts creates white light, and various combinations of different proportions allow for the creation of a wide color spectrum. The additive color system uses light mixing and is used in electronic devices such as computer screens, televisions, mobile phones...

Subtractive Color System - CMYK
This is a way of mixing colors where different color components are created using pigments. This color system consists of Cyan, Magenta, and Yellow. These three colors can also create black, but to achieve a deep black color and reduce pigment consumption, black is added. The subtractive color system is used in the printing industry.

Every device that produces color, whether it's a monitor or a printer, has the ability or capability to display colors. The range of colors a device can display is called its color gamut. The color gamut of a monitor (RGB) is definitely much larger than the color gamut of CMYK used in printing. For this reason, certain colors in print will never exactly match the colors you see on your monitor, as they are outside the color gamut.

To minimize these discrepancies, color management is used in printing. Color management is the process of controlling colors, which helps maintain consistency and accuracy of colors between input devices (cameras, monitors) and output devices (printers), ensuring the CMYK color standard is satisfactory for many.

Of course, there are times when colors outside the CMYK color gamut are required. In such cases, additional colors such as OVG are used alongside the primary CMYK colors to expand the color gamut of the print. Applications printed with Hexachrome colors are mainly labels and packaging.

RGB Color Space
RGB "Red, Green, Blue" is the color space displayed by color monitors, televisions, mobile phones, digital cameras, and similar devices.

In this color model, each color is represented by combining three primary color components (red, green, and blue). Combining all three color components in different proportions allows the reproduction of different shades and brightness levels of colors. In various ratios, the full spectrum of colors can be created, including white, black, and all shades in between. The RGB model is the basis for most display technologies as it enables dynamic and accurate color representation on screens.

The RGB color space has a much larger color gamut compared to the CMYK color space. In other words, the colors seen on a monitor can slightly differ when printed.

CMYK Color Space
CMYK is the color space used in the printing industry. The acronym CMYK stands for the four primary color components that make up the model: Cyan (blue), Magenta (pink), Yellow (yellow), and Key (black).

Each color in the CMYK model represents a color separation, and the combination of all four separations allows the reproduction of the full spectrum of colors, shades, and tones.

The CMYK model is smaller compared to the RGB model, which means that some colors outside the CMYK color gamut cannot be printed in exactly the same color as they appear on the monitor.

RGB vs CMYK
The colors we see on the monitor are displayed in the RGB color space. If you're designing a web catalog, create it in the RGB color space, but if you're designing a catalog for print, we recommend converting all graphic elements in the file to CMYK. This way, you’ll see a simulation of the print on your monitor. During conversion, primary bright colors (red, green, and blue) will appear less vibrant. Keep in mind that RGB files sent to print will be automatically converted to CMYK!

The image on the right shows the color gamut for individual ICC profiles. If you look at the ProPhoto RGB profile, it is outside the entire color gamut. In other words, these colors are not visible on the monitor for two reasons: one is that the human eye cannot see these colors, and the other is that the monitor simply cannot display these colors. The color gamut of the Adobe RGB 1998 profile is displayed only by a few professional monitors for graphic work (Eizo, Nec). Standard everyday monitors, unfortunately, either cannot display these colors accurately or display them incorrectly.

The SWOP CMYK color profile shows the color gamut available in the printing industry. As shown in the image, this profile is the smallest, meaning that colors outside this area cannot be printed in an exact color.

Colour Gamut
The color gamut shows the color range or the spread of the color profile. To ensure that colors remain within the CMYK color spectrum, we recommend designing your print materials in programs like Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, or Adobe Photoshop.

In the color picker tool, these programs warn you about colors that are outside the CMYK range. The warning appears as a triangle with an exclamation mark and alerts you that your selected color may not print correctly and suggests a similar color that can be printed.

RGB Image / CMYK Image
The image on the right shows the same image in both the CMYK and RGB color spaces. While the differences are minimal or almost imperceptible, they do exist. Therefore, we recommend creating your designs with images in the CMYK color space to avoid surprises regarding the difference between the image displayed on the monitor and the printed version.

As mentioned above, all RGB elements in the file will be automatically converted to CMYK! If color accuracy is critical for your project, you can also order a sample to assess the color accuracy before printing the full run.

Pantone® / HP IndiChrome Plus® / HP Premium White®

What is Pantone®?
Pantone Matching System (PMS) is a standardized color system that was created due to different color standards worldwide, aiming to prevent color mismatches regardless of the location of the client and the printer. The system is used in various industries, especially in design, printing, fashion, packaging, and other sectors where color accuracy is crucial.

The most basic definition of Pantone® is a color guide or catalog based on the principles of mixing and the properties of dyes and pigments. The founder of the company, Lawrence Herbert, created this innovative system for identifying, coordinating, and communicating about colors in 1963 and named it the PANTONE MATCHING SYSTEM, PMS. This simple tool marked the end of guesswork in design and printing, as the designer could choose a specific color based on a number, and the printer could then follow that number and, with a simple formula, produce the desired color and use it as the fifth color (spot color) on the printing press.

As mentioned, Pantone® color guides are used in all print industries (paper, textiles, leather, plastic, etc.). Focusing on the graphic printing industry for paper, we encounter various guides such as Pantone Formula Guides, Color Solutions for Print, Packaging, and Digital Design... Within these groups, the guides are divided into different types such as Coated, Uncoated, Spot color, Neon, Metallic, Pastel...

Each of these guide types is intended for different printing technologies (digital, offset, flexo, etc.). However, as we know, digital technology is still evolving and has limitations, so printing some colors from the guides is simply impossible.

What do Spot color and Process color mean?
Understanding the difference between Spot and Process color is important when determining color expectations during the transition from monitor to printer. Spot color is a color that is precisely mixed according to a formula and used in printing as a single color. In other words, the printer does not mix the color, we mix it ourselves using techniques, and the printer then prints it as a single color or separation. This method ensures the highest color accuracy and is mainly used in traditional offset printing for higher print runs. Pantone Color Institute

Another option is to use basic process colors CMYK for the same color. In this case, the process colors are mixed together to create the desired color, with the printer handling the mixing. However, since some Pantone colors cannot be printed using just CMYK colors, three additional colors (Orange, Violet, Green) may be added to achieve a broader color gamut. This method is called ECG (Extended Color Gamut) or Hexachrome. ECG printing is a faster and cheaper printing option, providing excellent results for Pantone colors.

What is HP IndiChrome Plus®?
HP IndiChrome Plus® is a trademark of HP. It is a digital printing technology using standard CMYK process colors, to which three additional colors (Orange, Violet, Green) are added. By adding these colors, we expand the printing color gamut, enabling the printing of up to 90% of Pantone colors with a print accuracy of up to ΔE 3.

The technology allows printing from Pantone solid coated and Pantone solid uncoated swatches. Pantone metallic colors cannot be printed!

This printing technology is often used for packaging and label printing on rolls, where color accuracy and repeatability are crucial.

What is White ink?
Premium WhiteInk is a special white ink used on HP Indigo printing presses. It is an innovative digital technology that enables white ink printing on darker materials, providing the same result as traditional screen or offset printing.

For example, if we want to print on black paper using standard CMYK colors, the result will be unsatisfactory since the print won’t be visible on black paper. To make the colors visible on black paper, we must first print a white layer. By printing white, we ensure that the CMYK colors will be visible and provide good contrast on the black paper. This method is called color printing with white underlay (W+CMYK). If the need is only for white ink, that option is also available (1/0 W).

White ink is used on all darker, transparent, and metallic materials. It is especially common in printing on self-adhesive transparent and metallic materials on rolls.

Color Deviation (ΔE)

What is color deviation?
Color deviation is the difference between the expected color and the actual reproduced color on the printed material. To minimize color deviation, various color management techniques are used. Whether it’s offset or digital printing technology, the ISO-12647 standard is applied to ensure color consistency in printing. Color deviation can occur in both printing methods due to various factors present during the printing phase.

What is Delta E (ΔE)?
Delta E is a measure of color deviation used in the printing industry. This value expresses the difference between the reference color and the actual reproduced color. Delta E is usually measured in three dimensions: ΔEab, ΔE94, and ΔE2000. The most commonly used form is ΔEab. A higher Delta E value indicates a larger color difference. The general rule is that a Delta E difference up to 5 is acceptable in printing!

Types of paper
Each type of paper absorbs color differently, so take the time to consider which paper is best for your project. For example, if we print the same photo on coated and uncoated paper, there will definitely be some color differences. On coated paper, the photo will be more saturated, while the same image printed on uncoated or recycled paper will be slightly darker and less saturated. This phenomenon is colloquially called a "washed" photo. Of course, the perception of a photo is subjective, and some people swear by coated paper, while others prefer uncoated paper.

Material protection
Just like paper, laminate film affects the final color of the printed material. For example, if we take the cover of a brochure printed on coated paper and laminated with matte laminate film, the color will be less saturated due to the matte film. If we use glossy gloss laminate, we will enhance the color saturation of the photo. Since we also offer ASC and Soft-touch laminate films, the color result on the cover will be different again. To summarize, we can get the cover in four different color shades.

Color consistency
Color consistency is especially important when printing packaging and labels. Here we are talking about printed materials that are repeated or printed periodically. It is a challenging task since many factors or details influence color consistency. One of them is, for example, the temperature and humidity of the room, wear and tear of the printing machine at the time of printing (blanket, bid, pip, etc.), the material for printing, which can vary in whiteness from batch to batch... HP Indigo technology is the only technology in digital printing that enables precise color management and thus ensures print consistency within the standardized color deviation range (ΔE).

Ink Saturation?

What is Ink Saturation?
Ink Saturation is the amount of ink applied by the printing machine to the media. The amount of ink is measured in percentages from 0-100%. To ensure satisfactory print results, it is recommended to use ink quantities for each color in the range of 10% to 91%. If the ink quantity is below 10%, there is a risk that the color may not print, and if the quantity exceeds 90%, the difference in the print will not be noticeable.

This issue is most common in black-and-white printing, where only black (K) ink is used. The general rule in printing is that ink quantities below 10% should not be used! Although this color is visible on the monitor, it is problematic for printing and may be lost in the process. In other words, the color is too light for printing!

The opposite is an excessive amount of ink. We talk about excessive ink when a single color exceeds 91%. As you can see in the image on the right, the color difference between 91% black and 100% black is clearly visible on the monitor. However, if this same image were printed, the color differences wouldn't be visible, so only one black rectangle would appear. In this case, we say that the ink amount is too dark!

Why? A color monitor creates colors using RGB light, while a printing machine creates colors using CMYK ink.

Ink Limit
Ink Limit is the maximum total amount of ink that the printing material (paper) can absorb. In this case, we are talking about the total amount of ink applied to the material. For each of the CMYK colors, the amount of ink can be chosen from 0%-100%. The higher the value, the darker the image. The total sum of the CMYK ink amounts is thus 400%.

CMYK colors, where the sum of all the used inks exceeds 320%, should not be used in printing. The maximum allowed ink coverage for coated papers is 320%, and 280% for uncoated papers, with a recommended range of 150% to 250%.

Why? Different types of paper absorb different amounts of ink. For example, if we print with a value over 300%, the ink coverage on the paper will be too high, resulting in a "muddy" image (no distinctions in dark tones), increased drying time, higher printing costs, and the ink will be more sensitive to scratches... In other words, there will be no distinction between colors with values between +280% and 400%; all the colors will be the same. Therefore, moderation is key. As you know, the total of deep black is 200% (C:40, M:30, Y:30, K:100)!

Print PDF - General guidelines

General Instructions for Preparing a PDF File for Printing!
Preparing a file for printing is not an easy task, as there are many factors to consider when creating a print file, including image resolution (dpi), color space of graphic elements (RGB, CMYK, Pantone), bleed, crop marks, margins, overprints, creep... and many more.
The optimal file format for printing is PDF (Portable Document Format). Many software programs allow you to create PDF files, but we recommend using only professional graphic programs such as Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Quark Xpress, Adobe FreeHand, and Corel Draw. If you are preparing larger print materials (catalogs, books), we recommend choosing Adobe InDesign.

Because we also want your final product to be flawless and delivered on time, we have prepared some brief instructions for properly creating PDF files from the most commonly used graphic programs. Keep in mind that proper file preparation is crucial for quality printing!

Below you can see short instructions for properly creating a PDF file for printing in graphic programs: Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Corel Draw.

When creating a PDF file for printing, consider the following:

1. DTP PROGRAM:
Prepare the PDF file for printing in graphic programs like InDesign, Illustrator, Quark X, or Corel Draw!

2. FILE FORMAT:
Always prepare the file in the correct size (1:1). If your file is not in 1:1 scale, please notify us!

3. IMAGES / BITMAP:
Always use images with sufficient resolution (dpi - dots per inch), from 250-300 dpi. For larger format prints (XXL printing), you can also use images with a resolution of 150 dpi and above.

4. COLOR SPACE:
All graphic elements in the file for printing (images, color backgrounds, logos, fonts, etc.) should be in the CMYK color space or PANTONE color scale.
Pantone color printing is possible in offset printing, where Pantone colors are printed as separate colors. In digital printing (HP Indigo - Indichrome), over 90% of Pantone colors can be printed using three additional colors (Orange, Green, Violet).

5. DEEP BLACK COLOR:
Always create black color areas (fills) using all four process colors C+M+Y+K (C=40%, M=30%, Y=30%, K=100%).

6. FONTS - BLACK COLOR, SIZE:
For black text or fonts smaller than 20 pt, always use pure black (C=0%, M=0%, Y=0%, K=100%), not all four colors, as this may cause color misregistration in printing. The minimum font size should not be smaller than 5 pt (K=100%) or 7 pt (K=30-70%). In case of reverse printing (white text on dark backgrounds), the minimum allowed font size is 8 pt. Fonts should always be vector-based, so create them in suitable programs (AI, ID, COREL...).

7. HAIRLINE - LINES:
Create thin lines or strokes in vector programs! Follow the minimum line thickness, which should not be less than 0.25 pt (0.1 mm), or a minimum of 0.5 pt (for reverse lines on dark backgrounds).

8. COLOR COVERAGE:
Color coverage or ink application is the sum of all color channels (C+M+Y+K). The maximum allowed color coverage for coated papers is 320% and 280% for uncoated papers. The minimum coverage for each color should not be less than 7%!

9. COLOR GRADIENT:
We recommend creating color gradients (where the color goes from dark to light) in Adobe Photoshop (rasterized form). We advise against creating gradients with vector programs, as this can result in unwanted color banding during printing.

10. BLEED, MARGINS, CROP MARKS:
If you want your print to be trimmed to the live edge, always add a 3 mm bleed. Graphic elements such as fonts, logos, and the like should be placed at least 3 mm away from the trim edge (Margins). The file should also include crop marks.

11. CREATING THE PDF FILE:
We recommend creating and saving the PDF file using the PDF/X3:2002 standard (Compatibility: Acrobat 4 - PDF 1.3)

12. PDF FILE FOR PRINTING:
Before sending the file to print, please double-check the file's suitability for printing!

Adobe InDesign

Adobe INDESIGN

Adobe InDesign is a computer program designed for graphic design and the layout or preparation of print materials for printing.
The program is increasingly used for designing websites, as well as web and tablet applications.

The advantages over other graphic programs are mainly in the simple yet refined handling of text and images, as well as stability when working with large publications.

Due to its full compatibility with files, filters, and effects from other Adobe programs, as well as numerous specialized usage options, it is the main tool for designers, publishers, and marketing professionals.

Links: www.adobe.com , www.design.tutsplus.com, www.adobeknowhow.com, www.lynda.com

Adobe INDESIGN - Instructions for Preparing a PDF File

1. Open a new document (CTRL+N);

2. Number of Pages - enter the number of pages you want to print;

3. Page Size - select or enter the dimensions of the document and orientation (landscape, portrait);

4. Margins - the margin from the trim edge should be at least 3-5 mm, and for publications like books or catalogs, the margin should be at least 10 mm or more;

5. Bleed - the bleed should be +3 mm for all documents (except for hard covers +15 mm);

6. Click the OK button.

In the open document, start creating your design. Keep the following in mind:

1. Graphic elements that will be trimmed to the live edge should always be dragged to the red outer line (Bleed box)!

2. Graphic elements, such as fonts, should always be placed inside the safe area (Margins), which is at least 5 mm inside from the trim edge (magenta line).

Black text or fonts should be created using only K=100% and not from CMYK!

3. Create deep black using CMYK: C=40% / M= 30% / Y=30% / K=100%.

4. Photographs (Bitmap) should be in the CMYK color space with sufficient resolution of 250-300 dpi.

Once the file is finished, export it to PDF (CTRL+E) and name the file appropriately.

Export Settings for PDF File for Printing:

1. In the Adobe PDF Preset tab, select the PDF/X3:2002 preset, PDF/X3:2002 standard, Compatibility Acrobat 4 (PDF 1.3).

The selected setting will combine transparency in the document (Flatten transparency).

In the Pages option, never select Spreads; always export the file by pages (Pages).

2. Compression - image compression settings

3. In the Colour Images tab, choose ZIP compression for Compression

4. In the Greyscale Images tab, choose ZIP compression for Compression

5. In the Marks and Bleeds tab, select Crop Marks (crop marks) and Use Document Bleed Settings (bleed settings).

6. In the Offset field, enter 3 mm.

7. Select the Output tab for color management.

8. In the Colour Conversion tab, select Convert to Destination and in the Destination tab, select Coated FOGRA 39 (for printing on coated papers) or Uncoated FOGRA 29 (for printing on uncoated papers). This selection will convert any unwanted RGB color space elements to the CMYK color space.

9. You can save the settings for next time by clicking the Save Preset... button.

10. Click the Export button to export the file to PDF. Open the PDF file and check it again.

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe ILLUSTRATOR

Adobe Illustrator is a versatile graphic program, ideal primarily for creating smaller print jobs such as business cards, posters, flyers, brochures, etc.

The program is especially suitable for drawing logos, icons, or illustrations, as it allows easy and fast drawing, assembling, and combining vector shapes and images.

Graphic designers increasingly use it for preparing website layout drafts.

Links: www.adobe.com , www.design.tutsplus.com, www.lynda.com

Adobe ILLUSTRATOR - instructions for preparing a PDF file

1. Open a new document (CTRL+N) and type the file name in the Name field;

2. Number of Artboards - enter the number of pages you wish to print;

3. Size - choose or type the dimensions of the document and orientation (landscape, portrait);

4. Bleed - the bleed area should be +3 mm for all documents (for hardcovers, it should be +15 mm);

5. In the Advanced option, select Color Mode: CMYK and Raster Effects: High (300 ppi);

6. Click OK.

Start creating your design in the open document. Keep the following in mind:

1. Graphic elements that will be cut live should always be extended to the outer red line (Bleed box)!

2. Graphic elements, such as fonts, should always be placed within the safe area (Margins), meaning within the inner magenta line, which is offset 5 mm inward from the trim line.

Since Adobe Illustrator does not have a Margin function like InDesign, you must create your own margin offset.

In our case, we did this using the Rectangle Tool.

Text in black color should be created using only K=100% and not from CMYK!

3. Deep black color is created with CMYK: C=40% / M=30% / Y=30% / K=100%.

4. Photos (bitmaps) should be in the CMYK color space with a resolution of 250-300 dpi.

When the file is finished, export it as a PDF (Shift+CTRL+S) and name the file appropriately.

Settings for exporting a PDF file for printing:

1. In the Adobe PDF Preset tab, select the setting PDF/X3:2002, standard PDF/X3:2002, Compatibility Acrobat 4 (PDF 1.3).
This setting will flatten transparency in the document.

2. Compression - image compression settings

3. In the Colour Bitmap Images tab, choose ZIP compression for Compression.

4. In the Greyscale Bitmap Images tab, choose ZIP compression for Compression.

5. In the Marks and Bleeds tab, select Trim Marks (cut marks) and Use Document Bleed Settings (bleed area).

6. In the Offset field, type 3 mm.

7. Select the Output tab for color management.

8. In the Colour Conversion tab, select Convert to Destination, and in the Destination tab, select Coated FOGRA 39 (for printing on coated paper) or Uncoated FOGRA 29 (for printing on uncoated paper).

This selection will convert any unwanted elements from the RGB color space to the CMYK color space.

9. You can save the settings for future use by clicking the Save Adobe PDF Settings button...

10. Click the Save PDF button to export the file as a PDF.

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe PHOTOSHOP

Adobe Photoshop is a software program primarily used for photo editing, such as photo manipulations (drawing, erasing, adding, merging, background replacements), color correction of images, and it also enables the creation of animated films and working with 3D objects.

Due to its vast range of capabilities, Adobe Photoshop is one of the essential tools for designers, photographers, illustrators, and anyone who needs high-quality and creative image presentations in their work.

Creating or preparing files for print with Adobe Photoshop should be considered as an alternative choice, as the program is not intended for creating PDF files for printing!

Links: www.adobe.com , www.design.tutsplus.com, www.lynda.com

Adobe PHOTOSHOP - instructions for preparing a PDF file

1. Open a new document (CTRL+N) and enter the file name in the Name field;

2. Document size - enter the file format increased by +6 mm (+3 mm left, right, top, bottom), in the resolution field, enter 300 Pixel/Inch, and in the Color Mode tab, select CMYK Color / 8 bit;

3. Advanced - in the Color Profile tab, select Coated FOGRA 39 (for printing on coated paper) or Uncoated FOGRA 29 (for printing on uncoated paper);

4. Click the OK button.

Since Photoshop does not have an option to set up a Bleed and Margins box, you will need to do this manually.

In our case, we used Guide lines, where the outer line shows where the document will be trimmed, and the inner line shows the Margins (safe area).

Start creating your design in the open document.

Keep the following in mind:

1. Graphic elements that will be cut live should always extend to the edge of the document, which is increased by 3 mm from the final trimmed size.

2. Graphic elements, such as fonts, should always be placed within the safe area (Margins), meaning within the inner lines, which are offset 5 mm inward from the cut edge.

Text in black should be made with K=100% and not from CMYK!

3. Deep black color should be created from CMYK: C=40% / M=30% / Y=30% / K=100%.

Once the file is finished, export it as a PDF (Shift+CTRL+S) and name the file appropriately.

Settings for exporting a PDF file for printing:

1. In the Adobe PDF Preset tab, select the PDF/X3:2002 setting;

2. Compression - compression settings for images;

3. In the Compression tab, select ZIP compression.

4. Select the Output tab for color management.

5. In the Colour Conversion tab, select Convert to Destination and in the Destination tab, select Coated FOGRA 39 (for printing on coated paper) or Uncoated FOGRA 29 (for printing on uncoated paper).

This selection will convert any unwanted elements from the RGB color space to the CMYK color space.

6. You can save the settings for next time by clicking the Save Preset... button.

7. Click the Save PDF button to export the file as a PDF.

Open the PDF file and double-check it!

Corel Draw

Corel DRAW

Corel Draw is a graphic design software program, as it allows for vector design and the free addition of images and text to the desired surface, providing great creative freedom.

It is most commonly used by graphic designers to create corporate identities (logos, symbols, emblems, etc.) and to produce one-page print materials such as flyers, posters, business cards, invitations, etc.

For the graphic preparation of extensive business print materials, such as catalogs and books, we recommend choosing Adobe InDesign!

Links: www.coreldraw.com

Corel DRAW - Instructions for preparing a PDF file

1. Open a new document (CTRL+N);

2. Size - choose the format or enter the dimensions you want to print, number of pages, and select CMYK as the Primary color mode;

3. Color settings - in the RGB profile field, choose Adobe RGB (1998), in the CMYK profile field, choose Coated FOGRA 39 for printing on coated paper, or Uncoated FOGRA 29 for printing on uncoated paper;

4. Click the OK button to continue!

Settings for the Bleed box (cutting allowance) and Margin box (offset from the cutting edge).

In the toolbar, click on the Layout tab and select Page Setup:

1. In the open window, select Page Size;

2. In the Bleed field, enter 3 mm and check the Show bleed area box;

3. In the open window, under Guidelines, select Presets;

4. Choose User Defined Presets, check the Margins box, and enter the margin offset from the cutting edge (min. 3 mm);

5. Click the Apply Presets button to confirm the settings;

6. Finish by clicking the OK button.

Start creating your design in the open document.

Keep the following in mind:

1. Graphic elements that will be cut live should always be extended to the outer dashed line (Bleed box)!

2. Graphic elements, such as fonts, should always be placed within the safe area (Margins), i.e., within the inner dashed line, which is 5 mm inward from the cutting edge.

Black text or writing should be made with K=100% and not from CMYK!

3. Deep black color should be created from CMYK: C=40% / M=30% / Y=30% / K=100%.

Once the file is finished, export it to PDF.

Settings for exporting a PDF file for printing:

1. In the toolbar, click File and select Publish to PDF;

In the open window, click the Settings button;

2. In the General tab, under the PDF preset option, select PDF/X-3 - this preset will flatten the transparency in the document.

3. In the Color tab, select the Use document color settings option, and check the Embed color profile and Always overprint black boxes;

4. In the Prepress tab, check the Bleed Limit box and enter 3 mm, in the Printers marks option, check the Crop marks box;

5. Click the OK button to export the file to PDF.

Flyers, business cards, posters...

Flyers, business cards, and posters are a simple type of print materials that we print on one or both sides. Generally, these are single-page prints that are usually printed in standard formats, although they can also be made in non-standard or custom formats if needed.

Regardless of which program you will use to design the print material (we recommend Adobe InDesign or Adobe Illustrator), please adhere to the following basic rules:

• Prepare the file at a scale of 1:1
• Account for Bleed if the material will be trimmed to the edge
• Consider the Margins (safe area)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when selecting font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file in PDF format under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard
• In the case of 4/4 printing, combine page 1 and page 2 into one PDF and send only one PDF

You can find more details at this link!

Folded flyers, invitations, greeting cards...

As the name suggests, this type of print material is a single-page document that is folded into a smaller format. Brochures or fold-outs are usually printed on both sides in standard sizes and then folded to a smaller dimension. Standard folds include V, C, Z, W, Roll, and Gate folds. Each letter symbolizes a type of fold (a C fold is in the shape of the letter C, a V fold in the shape of the letter V, etc.).

To avoid confusion between the client and the printer, when communicating about this type of print material, we always use two formats: the open format and the closed format, along with the type of fold. The rule is that the first dimension represents the length, while the second dimension represents the height of the fold. For example, a brochure 3 x 1/3-A4: 297x210 / 99x210 mm - C fold means that the length of the brochure, when open, is 297 mm x 210 mm (height), and when folded, its length is 99 mm or 1/3 of A4 x 210 mm (height).

It is also important to understand the number of pages and how the pages are ordered when the brochure is closed and the correct orientation of the pages. The image (right) shows the types of folds. Letter A represents the first page of the document, while letter B represents the second page of the document. The numbers show how the pages are arranged from the first to the last when the brochure is closed.

When preparing the print file for the brochure, we recommend using our blank templates (AI, ID) available with every product in the online calculator!

Regardless of which program you use to design the print material (we recommend Adobe InDesign or Adobe Illustrator), please adhere to the following basic rules:

• Prepare the file at a scale of 1:1
• Account for Bleed if the material will be trimmed to the edge
• Consider the Margins (safe area - at least 5 mm from the trim edge)
• Consider the Margins at the fold (move fonts at least 3 mm away)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be cautious when choosing font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file in PDF format under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard
• Combine page 1 and page 2 into a single PDF and send only one file

For more details, you can check out this link!

Presentation folders, gift bags, packaging

Presentation Folders are an essential part of business communication and serve to organize and present documents in a professional manner. Made from high-quality cardboard, they allow for customization with a logo, company colors, or graphic elements. Business folders can be printed on one or both sides. They are ideal for business meetings, presentations, trade fairs, and document archiving.

Gift Bags are elegant and practical packaging, suitable for gifts, promotional products, and special occasions. They come in various sizes depending on the contents you wish to package. Custom printing with logos, messages, or attractive graphic patterns is available. Typically, gift bags are printed on the outside. They are an ideal choice for gifts, promotional products, fashion stores, events, and weddings.

Packaging is crucial for product protection and simultaneously reflects the brand identity. Fully customizable with colors, logos, and promotional messages, which can be printed on both the outside and inside.

By combining business folders, gift bags, and thoughtful packaging, companies can achieve a comprehensive presentation of their brand in the market.

The common feature of the mentioned products is, of course, their shape, which cannot be achieved with ordinary cutting but requires die-cutting. Die-cutting is the process of shaping or cutting materials using special tools called dies. A die is a customized cutting tool made of metal blades arranged in the shape of the desired final form. Die-cutting is, therefore, an indispensable process in printing, packaging, and promotional material production.

At Demago Print, we offer fast and efficient services for the quick and easy ordering of personalized business folders, gift bags, and primary packaging. For this purpose, we have created over 2,000 different free die-cutting tools.

For each of the products, we have prepared free templates (PDF, AI) in our online calculator. Regardless of which program you use to design the print material (we recommend Adobe InDesign or Adobe Illustrator), please adhere to the following basic rules:

• Account for Bleed if the material will be trimmed to the edge
• Consider Margins (safe area - at least 3-5 mm from the trim edge)
• Consider Margins at the fold (move fonts at least 2-4 mm away)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be cautious when choosing vector lines: 0.25 pt (0.1 mm), or at least 0.5 pt (inverse lines on dark backgrounds)
• Be cautious when selecting font sizes: min. 6 pt (100K), 8 pt (CMYK), 10 pt (inverse text on dark backgrounds)
• Save the file in PDF format under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (ensure that the die line is included in the file for printing!)

For more details, you can check out this link!

Catalogues - Stapled binding

Stapled binding catalogs are printed materials where the pages are connected using metal staples or wire. This is one of the most commonly used binding techniques for thinner multi-page printed materials, such as catalogs, booklets, magazines...

Wire stitching is one of the most cost-effective binding methods. The publication is lightweight, easy to use, suitable for mailing, provides a clean and neat appearance, and is ideal for presenting products, services, or information. The pages can fully open, allowing for easy reading and use. This binding method is suitable for publications with page counts ranging from 8 to 80 pages. If thicker materials are selected, the number of pages should be reduced as the binding becomes impractical for thicker book blocks.

Typical catalog sizes are A4 or A5, but they can be adjusted according to your needs. Regardless of the format, the pages in the catalog are made up of folded sheets. As such, each folded sheet, when combined into the finished booklet, forms four pages of the booklet. This means that the total page count for a wire-stitched booklet must always be a multiple of four (4). It is impossible to create a 7-page, 10-page, or 25-page wire-stitched booklet. All wire-stitched booklets must include 4 pages, 8 pages, 12 pages, 16 pages, 20 pages, 24 pages, and so on. Even if a page in the booklet is blank, it still counts as a page!

For catalogs with a larger volume (+32 pages), we recommend choosing a thicker cover with lamination, as this will make the final product more compact. Additionally, a thicker cover will make the catalog more prestigious, attractive, and durable, as it will protect the inner pages and ensure a longer lifespan for the catalog. Preparing files for printing wire-stitched catalogs requires attention to detail, as this type of binding involves multiple steps that impact the layout, design, and production of the final product.

Regardless of the program you use to design the print material (we recommend Adobe InDesign), please adhere to the following basic rules:

• Specify the exact dimensions of the catalog
• Account for Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm, min. 10 mm when choosing a larger number of pages +40 pages)
• For wire stitching, the number of pages must be a multiple of 4 (i.e., 4, 8, 12, 16, etc.)
• We recommend numbering the pages (pagination)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be cautious when selecting font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file in PDF format under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As select Pages, not Spreads!)
• Send the print-ready file as one PDF, pages in the document should follow from the first to the last page, we will handle the print layout!
• In the case of a thicker cover or jacket, we recommend sending two separate PDF files and naming them appropriately, e.g., catalog-insert.pdf and catalog-cover.pdf.

Important: For catalogs with a larger number of pages (approx. +48), consider the fact that the inner pages shift outward compared to the outer pages when the booklet is folded and stitched. This means that the edges of the inner pages gradually "move" toward the outer edges, which can result in important graphic elements being cut off during trimming. Please take this into account when preparing the file for printing and adjust important content (margins).

Why does this happen? Creep occurs due to the thickness of the paper. When the pages are folded and stacked together, the inner pages stick out further than the outer pages. This effect is more noticeable with thicker booklets or thicker paper!

Example 1: A4 Catalog - 8 pages: Download!
Example 2: A4 Catalog - 36 pages (32+4): Insert! Cover!

Brochures - Perfect binding / milled, glued

Brochures - perfect binding are printed materials where the pages are connected at the spine using adhesive, and the cover is made of thicker paper or cardboard. This type of binding is very popular for publications with a larger number of pages, typically from 40 to 700 pages.

Typical brochure sizes are A4, A5, B5, but they can be adjusted according to your needs. Regardless of the format, the pages in the brochure are made up of sheets, each of which forms two pages. This means that the total page count must always be a multiple of two. Even if a page in the brochure is blank, it still counts as a page!

Preparing files for printing a perfect bound brochure requires close attention to detail, as this type of binding involves several steps that affect the design, layout, and production of the final product. Regardless of the program you use to design the material (we recommend Adobe InDesign), please follow the basic rules!

For printing the brochure, we need two separate PDF files: one for the cover print (the cover) and one for the book block print.

BROCHURE - BOOK BLOCK:

• Specify the exact dimensions of the brochure
• Account for Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm, min. 10 mm at the spine)
• The number of pages must be divisible by two (i.e., 40, 42, 44, 46, etc.)
• We recommend numbering the pages (pagination)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be cautious when selecting font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file as PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As select Pages, not Spreads!)
• Send the print-ready file as one PDF, with pages in the document following from the first to the last page, we will handle the print layout!
• Name the file appropriately, e.g., brochure-insert.pdf!

BROCHURE - COVER:

• Based on the number of pages or sheets, determine the thickness of the book block (R)
• If the book block thickness is, for example, 10 mm, you need to add this 10 mm to the cover length!
• The thickness of the book block and the cover dimensions are provided in the online calculator
• Account for Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be cautious when selecting font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file as PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard
• Send the print-ready file as one PDF
• Name the file appropriately, e.g., brochure-cover.pdf!

Important: The thickness of the brochure spine (R) is an important factor to consider when preparing the cover file! If you don’t account for this or add it to the cover length, the cover will be too short! The thickness of the book block depends on the number of pages and the type of paper used for printing.

A brochure with 200 pages printed on 115 g/m² coated paper has a spine thickness of R=9.4 mm, while the same brochure printed on 115 g/m² recycled paper has a spine thickness of R=14.5 mm, which is a noticeable difference.

Example: A4 brochure (portrait), perfect binding, 200 pages, 130 g/m² coated paper. The spine thickness R=10.7 mm (rounded to 11 mm). Total dimensions: 210 mm (front page) + 11 mm (spine thickness) + 210 mm (back page), total 431 mm. Cover height is 297 mm. Prepare the cover file with dimensions of 431x297 mm, and if printing with a live area, add 3 mm for trimming!

Example: A4 Brochure, 60 pages + cover (R=10 mm):
Brochure-cover Download!
Brochure-insert Download!

Brochures - Perfect binding / Sewn with thread, glued

Sewn binding brochures are a binding method where printed sheets are folded in half and nested inside one another. The group of nested sheets is called a signature or book unit. Usually, four sheets (16 pages) are included in one signature, but it can also be 8 or 12 pages. Each signature is then sewn along the spine with special thread. The thread connects all the pages within each signature, ensuring stability and preventing the pages from loosening. Once all the signatures are sewn, they are then connected together. The thread runs along the spine, binding all the signatures into one book block. The book block is then glued into the cover or binding, followed by trimming to the final format.

Sewn brochures are more durable and long-lasting, and the sewing gives the brochure a prestigious look, making it suitable for sales catalogs, art brochures, or high-quality publications for long-term use. This type of binding is very popular for publications with a larger number of pages, usually from 40 to 700 pages.

Typical brochure sizes are A4, A5, B5, but they can be customized based on your needs. Regardless of the format, the pages in the brochure are made from sheets, and each sheet forms two pages. Since at least two sheets (8 pages) are needed for sewing, the number of pages must be divisible by 4. Even if a page in the brochure is blank, it still counts as a page!

Preparing the file for printing a sewn brochure requires attention to detail, as this type of binding involves several steps that affect the layout, design, and final product. Regardless of which program you use to design the print (we recommend Adobe InDesign), please follow the basic rules!

For printing the brochure, we need two separate PDF files: one for the cover print (the cover) and one for the book block print.

BROCHURE - BOOK BLOCK:

• Define the exact dimensions of the brochure
• Take into account the Bleed (+3 mm)
• Take into account Margins (min. 5 mm, min. 10 mm at the spine)
• The number of pages must be divisible by four (i.e. 40, 44, 48, 52, etc.)
• We recommend numbering the pages (pagination)
• Convert all graphical elements to CMYK color space
• Use photos with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when choosing font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file in PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As choose Pages, not Spreads!)
• Send the file for printing in a single PDF, and the pages in the document should follow from the first to the last page; we will handle the layout for printing!
• Name the file logically, e.g., brochure-insert.pdf!

BROCHURE - COVER:

• Based on the number of pages or sheets, determine the thickness of the book block (R)
• If the thickness of the book block is, for example, 10 mm, you need to add these 10 mm to the cover length!
• The thickness of the book block and the cover dimension are displayed in the online calculator
• Take into account Bleed (+3 mm)
• Take into account Margins (min. 5 mm)
• Convert all graphical elements to CMYK color space
• Use photos with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when choosing font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file in PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard
• Send the file for printing in a single PDF
• Name the file logically, e.g., brochure-cover.pdf!

Important: The thickness of the spine of the brochure, R, is an important data that you must consider when preparing the cover file for printing! If you don't take this into account or add it to the length of the cover, it will be too short! The thickness of the book block depends on the number of pages, the type of paper used for printing, and the sewing addition (the thickness added by the thread between the signatures).

Example: Brochure A4 (portrait), sewn binding, 200 pages, 130 g/m2 coated paper. Spine thickness R = 10.7 mm (round up to 11 mm) + sewing addition (200 pages / 20 = 10 x 0.4 = 4 mm).
Total: 210 mm (first page) + 11 mm (spine thickness) + 4 mm (sewing addition) + 210 mm (last page), total 435 mm. The height of the cover is 297 mm.
Prepare the cover file in the dimension of 435 x 297 mm, and for live printing, add an additional 3 mm for trimming!

Example: Brochure A4, 60 pages + cover (R = 10 mm):
Brochure-cover Download!
Brochure-insert Download!

Books - Hardcover

A hardcover book consists of several elements that together ensure durability, functionality, and aesthetics, making these books popular for luxury editions, long-lasting publications, and important commemorative books. This type of binding is suitable for publications with a larger number of pages, usually from 24 to over 700 pages.

A detailed breakdown of the elements:
Book Block: consists of printed sheets folded in half and nested inside one another. The group of nested sheets is called a signature or book unit. Typically, four sheets (16 pages) are included in one signature, but it can also be 8, 12, or 20 pages. Each signature is then sewn along the spine with a special thread. The thread connects all the pages within each signature, ensuring stability and preventing the pages from loosening. Once all the signatures are sewn, they are connected together. The thread runs along the spine, binding all the signatures into a single book block.

Endpapers (front and back): are a key element of a hardcover book that provides the connection between the book block and the cover. They are located at the beginning (front endpaper) and at the end of the book (back endpaper), typically made from thicker uncoated paper, which may also be printed. The endpapers are partially glued to the inside of the cover and partially to the first or last signature of the book block.

Cover - Case Cover: is the outer layer that covers the basic construction of the cover made from cardboard. Its main purpose is to protect the covers and spine, as well as to aesthetically complement the book. The most common choice for modern books is printed paper, protected with a lamination film. In hardcover books, the spine can be flat (the spine is completely flat, giving the book a clean, modern, and minimalist look) or round (the spine is slightly rounded, giving the book a traditional and classic look, with the book block curving to fit the cover). The choice of spine shape depends on the book's purpose, its volume, and the desired final appearance. A flat spine is an excellent choice for smaller books or those with a modern and simple design, while a round spine is more suitable for thicker books or luxury editions where elegance and durability are important.

Headband: is a narrow textile band glued to the upper and lower edges of the spine of the book block, protecting it from damage, dust, and wear. Bookmark Ribbon: is a functional and aesthetic element of a hardcover book and is attached to the top of the spine of the book block. It is a thin, flexible ribbon that allows the reader to mark the page where they left off.

Typical book dimensions are A4, A5, B5, but they can be adjusted according to your needs. Regardless of the format, pages in the book are made from sheets, each of which forms two pages. Since at least two sheets (8 pages) are needed for sewing, the number of pages must be divisible by 4. Even if a page in the book is blank, it still counts as a page! No matter which program you use to design the print (we recommend Adobe InDesign), please follow the basic rules!

For printing the book, we need two separate PDF files: one for the cover print (the cover) and one for the book block print. If the endpapers are printed as well, we need them in a separate PDF.

BOOK BLOCK:

• Define the exact dimensions of the book
• Consider Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm, min. 10 mm at the spine)
• The number of pages must be divisible by four (e.g., 40, 44, 48, 52, etc.)
• We recommend numbering the pages (pagination)
• Convert all graphical elements to CMYK color space
• Use photos with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when choosing font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file in PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As choose Pages, not Spreads!)
• Send the file for printing in a single PDF, and the pages in the document should follow from the first to the last page; we will handle the layout for printing!
• Name the file logically, e.g., book-insert.pdf!

COVER - CASE COVER:

• The data for the thickness of the book block and the cover dimensions are displayed in the online calculator
• Consider the overlap (+15 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm)
• Convert all graphical elements to CMYK color space
• Use photos with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when choosing font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file in PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard
• Send the file for printing in a single PDF
• Name the file logically, e.g., book-cover.pdf!

The dimensions of the cover - case cover depend on the choice of the number of pages, the type of paper for printing, the addition for sewing (the thickness added by the thread between individual signatures), the thickness of the cardboard (+2.5 mm), and the addition for the overlap on each side (+15 mm).

Example - A4 book (297 x 420 mm - portrait), 200 pages, 130 g/m2 coated paper:
Spine thickness R = 10.7 mm (rounded up to 11 mm) + sewing addition (200 pages / 20 = 10 x 0.4 = 4 mm) = 15 mm.
Cover Width = 2 × (book block width + cardboard thickness) + 2 × (2.5 mm - the cover is always larger than the book block) + R (spine thickness) + 2 × 2.5 (cardboard thickness in the spine) + 2 × (overlap addition)
= 2 × (210 + 2.5) + 5 + 15 + 5 + 2 × (15) = 415 + 5 + 15 + 5 + 30 = 470 mm
Cover Height = height of the book block + 2 × (cardboard thickness) + 2 × (2.5 mm - the cover is always larger than the book block) + 2 × (overlap addition)
= 297 + 5 + 5 + 2 × 15 = 297 + 5 + 5 + 30 = 337 mm
Prepare the cover file in the dimension of 470 x 337 mm!

ENDPAPER - FRONT AND BACK:

• The size of the endpapers must match the size of the book block
• Consider the trimming addition (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5-10 mm)
• Convert all graphical elements to CMYK color space
• Use photos with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when choosing font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file in PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard
• The file for printing can be sent in a single PDF (8 pages), pages 1-4 will be printed as the front endpaper, pages 5-8 will be printed as the back endpaper (page 1 and page 8 are glued to the cardboard!)
• Alternatively, you can send the file in two separate PDFs (e.g., front-endpaper.pdf and back-endpaper.pdf)

Wire-o binding - Softcover

Wire-o binding is a versatile, practical, and functional choice for documents that are frequently used. Although it is not as prestigious as hardcover binding, its flexibility, durability, and ease of use make it ideal for textbooks, manuals, catalogs, and similar publications.

In this type of binding, the sheets of paper are perforated along one edge. A metal spiral is inserted through the perforated holes, connecting all the pages and covers, which are usually made of thicker cardboard. The spiral is adjusted based on the thickness of the document, as they are available in different diameters and three basic colors (white, black, and silver). Spiral binding is suitable for publications from 4 to 240 pages (2 to 120 sheets), with the spine of the book not exceeding 22 mm in thickness.

The advantage of spiral binding is the complete opening, allowing the pages to turn (360°), which makes it easy to use and read. The binding is robust and suitable for frequent use. Typical dimensions are A4 or A5, but they can be adjusted to your needs.

Preparing the file for printing requires precise attention to detail, as this type of binding involves several steps that affect the design, layout, and final execution of the product.

Regardless of which program you use to design the print material (we recommend Adobe InDesign), please adhere to the following basic rules:

• Determine the exact dimensions of the publication
• Consider Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm, min 10 mm in the spine)
• We recommend numbering the pages (pagination)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when selecting font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file as a PDF with the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As select Pages, never Spreads!)
• Send the print-ready file in one PDF, with pages in sequential order from first to last page; we will handle the printing layout!
• If you choose a thicker cover or jacket, we recommend sending two separate PDF files and naming them appropriately, e.g., catalog-insert.pdf and catalog-cover.pdf.

Example: Catalog A4 - 36 pages (32+4): Insert! Cover!

Wire-o binding - Hardcover

Wire-o binding is a versatile, practical, and functional choice for frequently used documents. Due to its flexibility, durability, and ease of use, it is ideal for textbooks, manuals, catalogs, and similar publications, while the durable hardcover made of cardboard protects the inner pages from damage and ensures long-lasting use.

In this type of binding, the sheets of paper are perforated along one edge. A metal spiral is inserted through the perforated holes, connecting all the pages and the cardboard cover, which is 2 mm thick. The hole spacing is standardized, with a 4:1 pitch (4 holes per inch or 2.54 cm) for thinner documents and a 3:1 pitch (3 holes per inch) for thicker documents.

The spiral is adjusted according to the document's thickness, as they come in various diameters and three basic colors (white, black, and silver). Spiral binding is suitable for publications ranging from 4 to 240 pages (2 to 120 sheets), with the spine of the book not exceeding a thickness of 22 mm.

The advantage of spiral binding is its complete opening, allowing the pages to turn (360°), making it easy to use and read. The binding is sturdy and suitable for frequent use. Typical dimensions are A4 or A5, but they can be adjusted to your needs.

Preparing the file for printing requires precise attention to detail, as this type of binding involves several steps that affect the design, layout, and final execution of the product. Regardless of which program you use to design the print material (we recommend Adobe InDesign), please adhere to the following basic rules!

For printing, we need two separate PDF files: one for the cover print (jacket) and one for the book block print. If the inner side of the cover (endpaper) is printed as well, we need a separate PDF for that!

BOOK BLOCK:

• Define the exact dimensions of the publication
• Consider Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm, min. 15 mm in the spine)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when selecting font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file as a PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As select Pages, never Spreads!)
• Send the print file in a single PDF, with pages in sequential order from the first to the last page; we will handle the printing layout!
• Name the file appropriately, e.g., notebook-insert.pdf!

COVER - JACKET: FRONT and BACK PAGES:

• Consider the overlap addition (+15 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm, min. 15 mm in the spine)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when selecting font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file as a PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard
• Send the print file in a single PDF (page 1 = front, page 2 = back)
• Name the file appropriately, e.g., notebook-cover.pdf!

The cover dimension depends on the selected format. For the chosen format, you need to add 5 mm to each side (the cover is always 5 mm larger than the book block on each side by 2.5 mm) and the overlap addition for each side (+15 mm).

Example - A4 notebook 210 x 297 mm (portrait):
Cover width front = width of the book block + 5 mm (cover is 5 mm larger than the book block) + 2 x 2 mm (thickness of the cardboard) + 2 × (overlap addition) = 210 + 5 + 4 + 30 = 249 mm
Cover height front = height of the book block + 5 mm (cover is 5 mm larger than the book block) + 2 x 2 mm (thickness of the cardboard) + 2 × (overlap addition) = 297 + 5 + 4 + 30 = 336 mm
Prepare the cover print file front at dimensions 249x336 mm!

Cover width back = width of the book block + 5 mm (cover is 5 mm larger than the book block) + 2 x 2 mm (thickness of the cardboard) + 2 × (overlap addition) = 210 + 5 + 4 + 30 = 249 mm
Cover height back = height of the book block + 5 mm (cover is 5 mm larger than the book block) + 2 x 2 mm (thickness of the cardboard) + 2 × (overlap addition) = 297 + 5 + 4 + 30 = 336 mm
Prepare the cover print file back at dimensions 249x336 mm!

INSIDE OF THE COVER

In spiral binding with a hardcover, an endpaper is glued to the inside of the cover. It is usually a white uncoated paper, which can also be printed on one side if desired. The format is the same as the book block format, and when preparing for print, the general rules apply:

• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm, min. 15 mm in the spine)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when selecting font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file as a PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard
• Send the print file in a single PDF (page 1 = front, page 2 = back)
• Name the file appropriately, e.g., notebook-endpaper.pdf!

Wall calendars with hanger - Wire-o binding

Wall calendars with spiral binding and a hanger are popular for their functionality, aesthetics, and practicality. This type of calendar allows easy flipping of the pages, an elegant presentation of the content, and convenient hanging on the wall.

In this binding method, the sheets of paper are perforated along the top edge. A metal spiral is inserted through the perforated holes, which binds all the pages and allows the pages to rotate 360°, making it easier to flip through and ensuring that the calendar stays neatly aligned. The spirals are available in different colors (white, black, silver). The durable metal hanger can bear the weight of the calendar and is integrated into the center of the spiral, enabling easy hanging of the calendar on the wall.

Typical calendar dimensions are oversized A3 (315x470 mm), SRA3, A2, or B2, but they can be customized to your needs, usually 13 or 14 pages, with the option to print an extended backing cardboard. This type of calendar is printed on one side (4/0)!

Preparing the file for print requires attention to detail that affects the design, layout, and production of the final product. Regardless of which program you use to design the print (we recommend Adobe InDesign), please follow these basic guidelines:

• Specify the exact dimensions of the calendar
• Consider the Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm, min. 15 mm at the head)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be cautious when selecting font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file in PDF format under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As select Pages)
• Send the file for printing as one PDF, with pages in order from first to last

Two-part wall calendars - Wire-o binding

Two-part wall calendars with spiral binding are popular due to their functionality, aesthetics, and practicality. This type of calendar allows for easy page flipping, elegant content presentation, and convenient wall mounting.

For this binding style, the paper sheets are perforated along the top edge. A metal spiral is inserted through the perforated holes, connecting all the pages and allowing the pages to rotate 360°, making it easier to flip through the calendar and ensuring it stays well-aligned. Spirals are available in different colors (white, black, silver). Instead of a metal hanger, a hole is drilled through all the pages, allowing the calendar to be hung on the wall.

Typical dimensions for two-part calendars are A4, Q4, and Q3, but they can be adjusted to meet your needs. They are usually made up of 13 or 12 sheets (26 or 24 pages), printed on both sides (4/4). The upper part of the calendar typically features images or graphics, while the lower part has the monthly calendar, providing a clear overview of the month.

Preparing the file for print requires attention to detail, as this binding method affects the layout and final result. Regardless of the program used to design the print (Adobe InDesign is recommended), please follow these basic guidelines:

• Specify the exact dimensions of the calendar
• Consider the Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm, min. 15 mm at the head)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful with font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file as a PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As select Pages)
• Send the print file as a single PDF, with pages in order from first to last

Two-part wall calendars - Stapled binding

Stapled is a practical and economical binding method, which is also suitable for binding wall calendars. It is a cost-effective type of bookbinding where a wire stitching machine binds multiple sheets together and staples them at the spine, folding them in half, and trimming them to the final format from the front.

Calendars are available in standard dimensions with the option of choosing 24 or 28 pages, or 6 or 7 sheets. To hang the calendar on the wall, they come with a 6 mm diameter hole!

Typical dimensions of calendars are A4, Q 297, and Q 210, but they can be adjusted to your needs. They are usually 28 or 24 pages (7 or 6 sheets folded in half). This type of calendar is printed double-sided (4/4)!

Preparing the file for print requires attention to detail that affects the design, layout, and execution of the final product. Regardless of which program you use to design your print (we recommend Adobe InDesign), please follow these basic guidelines:

• Specify the exact dimensions of the calendar
• Consider the Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be careful when selecting font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file as a PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As select Pages)
• Send the print file in a single PDF, with pages in the document following each other from the first to the last page

Desktop calendars - Wire-o binding

Desktop calendars with a spiral binding are an excellent choice for personal or business use, as they are practical, aesthetically appealing, and allow for efficient organization. The desktop calendar is made of thicker cardboard to ensure stability, and the triangular shape makes it easy to place on a desk. The calendar section and stand are bound with a spiral at the top, which allows for easy flipping and viewing of the months.

Available options include 13, 14, or 54 pages in three standard sizes. These types of calendars are typically printed on one side (4/0), occasionally on both sides (4/4).

Preparing the file for print requires attention to detail, which influences the design, layout, and final product. Regardless of the design software used (Adobe InDesign is recommended), please follow these basic guidelines:

• Specify the exact dimensions of the calendar
• Consider the Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 5 mm, min. 15 mm at the top)
• Convert all graphic elements to the CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be cautious with font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file as a PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As select Pages)
• Send the print file as a single PDF, with pages in order from first to last

Note pads, NCR

Note pads and copy blocks are popular tools for writing and taking notes, commonly used in schools, offices, businesses, and at home.

We print writing pads on uncoated paper with lower grammage, typically one-sided. Since they are meant for jotting down notes, ideas, or lists, they usually feature lines or grids to make writing easier. Available in various sizes (A4, A5, A6), with options to choose the number of sheets (25, 50, 100), which are glued together either at the top or on the spine. There is also an option for writing pads with a thicker cover, which provides additional durability and gives a professional look.

NCR copy blocks are excellent tools for quickly creating copies of documents for order processing, issuing invoices, preparing delivery notes, and other forms. Available in standard formats, typically with 100 sheets per block, which can be bound at the top or spine with glue or stapled. NCR blocks stapled are perforated, making it easy to tear off pages. There is also an option for numbering with sequential numbers and a hole-punch option that fits standard mechanisms in binders.

Preparing the file for print requires attention to detail, which influences the design, layout, and final product. Regardless of the software used (Adobe InDesign is recommended), please follow these basic guidelines:

• Specify the exact dimensions
• Consider the Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 3 mm, min. 10 mm for stapling, holes)
• In the case of numbering, we need the exact position, size, and color of the font
• Convert all graphic elements to CMYK color space or Grayscale (black and white printing)
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be cautious with font sizes and vector lines (min. line thickness 0.25 pt)
• Save the file as a PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As select Pages)

Tickets

Tickets are a key element in event organization as they allow for easy tracking, access control, and a professional impression. We print them on uncoated paper with lower grammage (130 or 170 g/m²), either one-sided or double-sided, and they can be perforated once or twice.

Tickets that are perforated in two places for easier tearing from the block are usually stapled at the spine, while tickets without perforation are typically just glued.

Tickets are supplied in neat blocks of 50 or 100 pieces, with the option for numbering. Perforation allows attendees to quickly and easily tear off part of the ticket, while numbering ensures the uniqueness of each ticket and allows tracking of sales or entry to the event.

Tickets are usually printed one-sided (4/0), less frequently double-sided (4/4), in standard formats (210x74 mm, 210x50 mm, A7...), but can be adjusted to your specific needs.

Preparing the file for print requires attention to detail, which influences the design, layout, and final product. Regardless of the software you use (Adobe InDesign is recommended), please follow these basic guidelines:

• Specify the exact dimensions of the ticket
• Consider the Bleed (+3 mm)
• Consider Margins (min. 3 mm, min. 10 mm at the spine - stapling)
• In case of perforation, we need the exact position (the perforation line can be shown in Spot color or marked in the Bleed area)
• In case of numbering, we need the exact position, size, and color of the font
• Convert all graphic elements to CMYK color space
• Use images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi
• Be cautious with font sizes and vector lines
• Save the file as a PDF under the PDF X-3: 2002 standard (General / Export As select Pages)

Print PDF - General guidelines

The rules for correctly preparing the file for label printing are exactly the same as those required for commercial print jobs, with the difference that labels on a roll are cut into geometric shapes (rectangle, square, circle, oval, triangle, custom shapes...). To avoid misunderstandings between the customer and the printer, it is recommended that the PDF file for printing also contains a line (CutContour) clearly indicating where the label will be cut.

For creating a PDF file, we recommend using professional graphic software such as Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, or Corel Draw. To ensure that your label is flawless and produced within the agreed deadline, please follow the instructions!

When creating a PDF file for printing, please consider the following:

1. DTP SOFTWARE:
Prepare the PDF file for printing using graphic programs such as InDesign, Illustrator, Quark X, or Corel Draw!

2. FILE FORMAT:
Always prepare the file for printing in the correct format (1:1). If your file is not to scale 1:1, you must inform us!

3. IMAGES / BITMAPS:
Always use images with a sufficient resolution (dpi - dots per inch) in the print file, from 250-300 dpi, and for larger format printing (XXL print), you may use images with a resolution of 150 dpi or higher.

4. COLOR SPACE:
All graphic elements in the print file (images, color backgrounds, logos, fonts...) should be in the CMYK color space or in the PANTONE color scale.
Pantone color printing is possible in offset printing, where Pantone colors are printed as individual colors. In digital printing (HP Indigo - Indichrome), over 90% of Pantone colors can be printed using three additional colors (Orange, Green, Violet).

5. DEEP BLACK COLOR:
For black areas (blacks), always use all four process colors C+M+Y+K (C=40%, M=30%, Y=30%, K=100%).

6. FONTS - BLACK COLOR, SIZE:
For black text or fonts smaller than 20 pt, always create them in pure black (C=0%, M=0%, Y=0%, K=100%), never from all four colors, as this may cause color registration shifts during printing. The minimum font size should not be smaller than 5 pt (K=100%) or 7 pt (K=30-70%). For inverse printing (white text on dark backgrounds), the minimum allowed font size is 8 pt. Fonts should always be vectorized, so create them in suitable programs (AI, ID, COREL...).

7. HAIRLINE - LINES:
Create thin lines in vector graphic programs! Observe the minimum line thickness, which should not be less than 0.25 pt (0.1 mm) or a minimum of 0.5 pt (inverse lines on dark backgrounds).

8. COLOR COVERAGE:
Color coverage or ink application is the sum of all color channels (C+M+Y+K). The maximum allowed color coverage for coated papers is 320% and 280% for uncoated papers. The minimum coverage for each color should not be less than 7%!

9. COLOR GRADIENT:
We recommend that you create color gradients (Gradient) where the color transitions from darker to lighter in Adobe Photoshop (rasterized format). We advise against creating color gradients in vector programs, as it may result in undesirable color bands during printing.

10. BLEED, MARGINS, CROP MARKS:
If you want your print to be cut to the edge, make sure to include a 3 mm bleed for trimming (Bleed). Graphic elements such as fonts, logos, etc., should be positioned at least 3 mm inward from the trim edge (Margins). The file should also contain crop marks (Crop Marks).

11. CREATING A PDF FILE:
We recommend that you create or save the PDF file with the standard PDF/X3:2002 (Compatibility: Acrobat 4 - PDF 1.3).

12. PDF FILE FOR PRINTING:
Before sending the file to print, please double-check its suitability for printing!

Adobe InDesign

Label Dimensions

Open a new document in Adobe InDesign (CTRL+N);

1.) In the W and H fields, enter the desired label dimensions in mm, select the orientation (portrait or landscape), and specify the number of pages or different variations.

2.) Margins (safe area) - enter 3 mm or more in the fields.

3.) Bleed (trim allowance) - enter 3 mm in the fields.

In this specific example (shown on the right), the template for a 70x90 mm label is shown, in a rectangular shape (portrait).
Graphic elements that you want to be trimmed to the edge should always be dragged to the blue frame. The red frame shows where the label will be trimmed, and the green frame shows the safe area, the space where you design the label. The safe area (Margins) is positioned at least 3 mm inward from the trim edge.

Important:
• Black text or font color should be made up of K=100% and not CMYK!
• For deep black color, use CMYK: C=40% / M=30% / Y=30% / K=100%.
• Photographs (Bitmap) should be in the CMYK color space.
• Image resolution should be at least 200-300 dpi.

Contour Line for Label Shape

Labels are usually in standard shapes such as rectangles, ovals, or circles, but they can also be irregularly shaped if desired.

To avoid misunderstandings between the customer and the printer, it is recommended that the PDF file for printing also includes a line (CutContour) that clearly indicates where the label will be cut. The cut line should always be in a Spot color and in Overprint! Example for an oval label 70x50 mm:

1. Select the Ellipse (L) tool and enter the desired cut label dimensions (e.g., 70x50 mm) in the fields.

2. Open the Stroke (F10) panel and select a value of 0.25 pt (line thickness).

3. In the Swatches panel, select New Color Swatch;

4. In the Color Type window, select Spot, in the Swatch Name field enter CutContour and choose a color of 100% Magenta. Confirm the color by clicking OK. This will add the color to the Swatches.

5. In the design, select the contour line and change its color to the CutContour color. Open the Attributes panel (Window > Output > Attributes) and select Overprint Stroke. The cut line is now in Spot color (CutContour) with Overprint.

6. It is recommended to create a new Layer (Cut) and lock it so it does not move during the design process.

The line in Spot Magenta color (image 1) shows where the label will be cut.

The line in green (image 2) shows the safe area (Margins), which is intended for designing the label.

The safe area is positioned 3 mm inward from the trim edge. If the label is 70x50 mm, the safe area will be 64x44 mm.

All elements that you want to be trimmed to the edge should extend to the outer red line (Bleed), or 3 mm beyond the cut line.

If you are designing labels that are not rectangular (oval, circle, triangle...), InDesign will not draw the safe area line for you, so you need to create it yourself.

You can create the safe area line in a similar way as the cut line using the Ellipse Tool (L) and either lock the object (CTRL+L) or lock it in the Layer.

Before saving to PDF for print, make sure to remove or delete the safe area frame!

Export the label file to PDF.

1. In the Adobe PDF Preset section, select the PDF/X3:2002 setting, with Compatibility Acrobat 4 (PDF 1.3).

2. In the Marks and Bleeds section, check the Crop Marks (crop marks) and Use Document Bleed Settings (bleed allowance).

3. In the Colour Conversion section, select Convert to Destination, and in the Destination section, choose Coated FOGRA 39. This will convert any unwanted RGB color elements to CMYK.

Click the Export button to export the file to PDF. You can save the settings for next time by clicking Save Preset.

Open the PDF file and check it once again.

Printing with white colour (HP-White)

Printing with a white underlay is a printing technique where white ink is printed underneath graphic elements either partially or completely.

The white underlay (W) is used when printing on transparent, metallic, or dark-colored materials (colored substrates). Printing the white underlay ensures that the colored graphic elements printed over the white remain vibrant and contrast well.

For printing white ink, we need a PDF file that clearly indicates which elements of the graphic are printed with the white underlay.

To create the appropriate file, we recommend using Adobe programs. For vector graphics, we recommend using InDesign or Illustrator, and for photographs or raster images, use Photoshop or a combination of all three.

Adobe InDesign

Below you can see how to prepare a label for printing on a metallic silver substrate.

In our case, it is a round label where we want to print the upper half with a white underlay and the lower part without white, as we want to create a metallic effect.

Open a new document, enter the dimensions, Bleed, and Margins.

For a round label, InDesign will not draw the Margin line, so you can draw it yourself for a clearer view of the safe area. In our case, we also drew the Bleed and Cut lines for trimming.

First, we added Spot colors in Swatches (Image 1) and named them logically, ensuring that all lines are set to Overprint (Image 3).

In the Layers panel (Image 2), we created 3 layers, named them appropriately, and moved each line to the corresponding layer. To avoid accidental movement of layers during work, it’s advised to lock them.

Create a new Layer (Image 1) and name it White.

Use the Rectangle Tool to create a rectangle and fill it with the Spot color White.

In the Attributes panel, change the White color to Overprint Fill (Image 2). Move the created object to the White layer.

If you turn off the Design layer, you will see where the white underlay will be printed (Image 3).

When you turn on the Design layer, you will see all the layers (Image 6).

If the design image is not showing as transparent like in Image 6, change the document preview mode to Overprint Preview (Image 5).

Save the file as PDF and open it in Adobe Acrobat. In the View > Tools > Print Production tab, open the Output Preview option and check the separations. It is important that the separations for White, Cut, and Margin are in Spot colors and set to Overprint!

You can view the print PDF!

Printing Pantone colour - HP Indichrome

What is HP IndiChrome?

HP IndiChrome Plus® is an advanced color system developed by HP (Hewlett-Packard) for its HP Indigo digital press series. The system extends the traditional CMYK color model by including additional colors for an expanded color gamut. It is digital printing using standard CMYK process colors, to which three additional colors—Orange, Violet, and Green—are added. By incorporating these colors, we increase the color gamut of the print and thus achieve the ability to print up to 90% of Pantone colors with a print accuracy of up to ΔE 3.

Printing using up to 7 color channels goes beyond the limitations of the standard CMYK model and enables greater accuracy in reproducing Pantone colors. The wider color gamut is crucial for demanding projects where color accuracy and repeatability are key. This technology allows printing from the Pantone Solid Coated and Pantone Solid Uncoated swatches. Metallic Pantone colors cannot be printed!

For designing and preparing files for printing with Pantone colors, we recommend using Adobe InDesign or Adobe Illustrator!

Since 2022 (specifically from August), Adobe no longer includes Pantone swatches in its programs such as InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop due to a change in Pantone's licensing policy. Pantone has introduced a subscription service called Pantone Connect, which gives access to their color libraries. Alternative: Click!

Preparing a File for Printing with Pantone Colors

Printing labels using Pantone colors is an important step in ensuring color consistency, especially in packaging and product labeling where color often represents brand identity.

Before you begin designing, please read the short instructions for preparation. We recommend using Adobe Illustrator or Adobe InDesign to prepare the file for printing.

If you are using a different design program, please keep in mind that we need a PDF file where the Pantone color is shown as a Spot separation!

For printing Pantone colors, select colors from the Pantone Solid Coated library!

In Adobe InDesign, open your document.
In the toolbar, go to Window > Color (F5) and select Swatches.

Click on the Swatches palette menu and select New Color Swatch.

In the open window, under the Color Mode dropdown, select Pantone+ Solid Coated or Pantone+ Solid Uncoated.

If you know the Pantone color number you want to use, you can enter it in the blank field or search for the Pantone color and click on it. After clicking on the color swatch and pressing OK, the Pantone color will appear in the Swatches palette.

In this case, we have selected PANTONE Reflex Blue C.

Select the vector elements in your file that you want to print in Pantone color. By clicking on the desired Pantone color in the Swatches palette, you will change the CMYK color of the selected elements to the Pantone color!

To double-check if all the desired objects in the file have been changed to the Pantone color, go to Window / Output / Separations Preview

In the dropdown menu, select Separation. Turn off the visibility of CMYK colors and the elements printed with the selected Pantone color will appear.

Example file for Pantone color printing: Download!

3D UV Spot varnish

What is UV Spot - Partial Varnishing?

UV spot (gloss) - partial varnishing is a technique of applying a glossy varnish to a specific area where we want to highlight individual details on the printed material (e.g., logo, slogan, etc.).
In this process, light reflects differently from the various printed surfaces, enhancing the appearance of the printed materials.

For example, a printed material that is laminated with matte foil can have glossy varnish applied in a specific area to create interesting effects.

This technique is commonly used on graphic products such as business cards, invitations, brochures, diplomas, catalog covers, hardcover books, business folders, etc.

Note: The application of UV Spot varnish has a tolerance of about ± 0.5 mm, so it is not recommended to apply varnish on small text or thin lines as we cannot guarantee perfect registration or coverage in such cases!

Preparing a File for Partial 3D UV Varnishing

When you want to highlight certain elements on your printed material with 3D UV spot varnish, it is necessary to prepare a suitable file that complies with the printing requirements.

Before you start designing, please read the brief guidelines for preparation. We recommend using Adobe Illustrator or Adobe InDesign for preparing files for printing.

If you are using another design program, keep in mind that we need a PDF file for printing, in which the additional Spot color indicates where the varnish will be applied.

The PDF file for printing should have two layers: Layer 1 = Design - CMYK + Layer 2 = UV Spot - spot color / Overprint fill+stroke.

The name of the spot color can be anything (e.g., varnish, lacquer, 3D...), but it is important that it is in its own layer and in overprint!

Preparing a File for 3D UV Spot Varnishing: Adobe InDesign

1. Create a new UV Spot Layer

In Adobe InDesign, open the document you wish to prepare for UV spot printing.

In the toolbar, go to Window > Layers (F7) and add a new layer, naming it UV Spot.

2. Move elements to the UV Spot Layer

In the file, select all elements that you want to have varnished.

After selecting the elements, copy them (CTRL+C), then click on the UV Spot layer and paste the elements (Edit > Paste in Place).

With this, you have duplicated the elements and pasted them in the same position as in Layer 1.

If you want to apply additional UV varnish to part of an image (bitmap), you need to create a shape (Shape). Use the Pen Tool to draw the desired shape, then move the vector graphic to the UV Spot layer and color it with the UV Spot color, which must be set as Overprint Fill!

3. Create a new UV Spot color

In the toolbar, open the Swatches window (Window > Color > Swatches (F5)).

Click on New Color Swatch and in the Swatch Name field, type UV Spot. In the Colour Type option, select Spot and create a new spot color using: C=0 / M=100 / Y=0 / K=0, then click OK.

With this, you have created and added a new color named UV Spot to your Swatches palette.

4. Change the color of elements for UV spot printing

Select the UV Spot layer and change the color of all elements in that layer to the UV Spot color.

Convert the UV Spot color to Overprint (Window > Output > Attributes)!

5. Check the elements you want to varnish

If you turn off Layer 1, you can check if you have selected all the elements you want to varnish.

6. Export the file to PDF

Once you've completed the file in InDesign, you need to export it as a PDF for printing.

In the menu, go to File > Export and name the file as you wish.

1. In the Adobe PDF Presets section, choose PDF/X-3:2002.

2. In the Compatibility section, select Acrobat 6 (PDF 1.5).

3. Check Create Acrobat Layers.

4. In the Marks and Bleeds section, uncheck Crop Marks and in the Bleed and Slug section, uncheck Use Document Bleed Settings.

5. In the Colour Conversion section, choose Convert to Destination and in the Destination section, select Coated FOGRA 39 (for coated papers) or Uncoated FOGRA 29 (for uncoated papers).

6. Click on Export to export the file to PDF.

7. PDF file

Open the PDF file in Adobe Acrobat Pro, check the number of layers, and use Output Preview to check the number of separations.

Preparing a File for 3D UV Spot Varnishing: Adobe Illustrator

1. Create a new Varnish Layer

In Adobe Illustrator, open the document you want to prepare for UV spot printing.

In the toolbar, go to Window > Layers (F7) and add a new layer, naming it Varnish.

The name of the spot color can be anything (e.g., varnish, lacquer, 3D...), but it is important that it is in its own layer and in overprint!

2. Move elements to the Varnish Layer

Select the elements that you want to apply the varnish to.

After selecting the elements, copy them (CTRL+C), then click on the Varnish layer and paste the elements (Edit > Paste in Place).

3. Create a new Varnish color

In the toolbar, open the Swatches window (Window > Color > Swatches (F5)).

Click on New Color Swatch and in the Swatch Name field, type Varnish. In the Colour Type option, select Spot and create a new spot color using: C=0 / M=100 / Y=0 / K=0, then click OK.

4. Change the color of elements for UV spot printing

Select the Varnish Layer and change the color of all elements in that layer to the Varnish color.

Convert the Varnish color to Overprint (Window > Attributes)!

5. Check the elements you want to varnish

If you turn off Layer 1, you can check if you have selected all the elements you want to varnish.

6. Export the file to PDF

Once you’ve completed the file in Illustrator, you need to export it as a PDF file for printing.

In the File menu, select Save As and name the file as you wish.

1. In the Adobe PDF Presets tab, choose PDF/X-3:2002.

2. In the Compatibility section, select Acrobat 6 (PDF 1.5).

3. Check the Create Acrobat Layers box.

4. In the Marks and Bleeds tab, uncheck Crop Marks, and in the Bleed and Slug section, uncheck Use Document Bleed Settings.

5. In the Colour Conversion section, select Convert to Destination, and in the Destination tab, choose Coated FOGRA 39 (for coated papers) or Uncoated FOGRA 29 (for uncoated papers).

6. Click the Save PDF button to export the file to PDF.

7. PDF file

Open the PDF file in Adobe Acrobat Pro, check the number of layers, and use Output Preview to check the number of separations.

Metallic Foil - digital foiling

What is Digital Thermal Printing?

Digital thermal printing is a modern technological solution that enables superior printing effects with high adaptability and without the need for traditional clichés. This makes it fast, cost-effective, and suitable for smaller runs or personalized projects. It is a process that combines the advantages of digital printing with the possibility of adding embossed, metallized visual and tactile effects.

The process involves several key steps. The printed material that we want to print with metallic foil is typically laminated with a lamination foil, which creates a surface that does not absorb UV varnish, allowing the transparent UV varnish to be applied only to specific parts of the printed material. This varnish is immediately cured with UV light, creating an embossed, tactile effect and ensuring that the foil adheres only to certain areas that were printed with UV varnish.

Digital thermal printing is most commonly used for printing luxury packaging for cosmetics, perfumes, or luxury foods, marketing materials such as brochures, catalogs, invitations, and flyers, as well as personalized printed materials like business cards, greeting cards, certificates, or limited-edition products with individual personalization.

Preparing a File for Digital Thermal Printing

When you want to highlight certain elements on the printed material with metallic foil printing, a suitable file must be prepared that will meet the requirements.

Before you start designing, read the short preparation instructions. We recommend preparing your file in Adobe Illustrator or Adobe InDesign.

If you are using another design program, keep in mind that for printing, we need a PDF file where the additional Spot color shows the elements that will be printed with metallic foil.

The PDF file for printing must have two layers: Layer 1 = Design - CMYK + Layer 2 = Foil - spot color / Overprint fill+stroke.

The name of the spot color can be anything (e.g., Foil, Gold, Silver...), the important thing is that it is in its own layer and in overprint!

Preparing a File for Foil Printing: Adobe InDesign

1. Create a new Layer for Foil

In Adobe InDesign, open the document you want to prepare for foil printing.

In the toolbar, select Window > Layers (F7), add a new layer, and name it Foil.

2. Move elements you want to print with foil into the Foil Layer

In the file, select all elements you want to print with foil.

Once the elements are selected, copy them (CTRL+C), then select the Foil layer and paste the elements into the Foil layer (Edit > Paste in place).

This duplicates the elements and pastes them in the same position as in Layer 1.

If you want to print part of an image (bitmap) with foil, you need to create a shape (Shape). Draw the desired shape using the Pen Tool, move the vector graphic to the Foil layer, and color it with the Foil color, which must be set as Overprint Fill!

3. Create a new Foil color

In the toolbar, open the Swatches panel (Window > Colour > Swatches (F5)).

Open the window - New Color Swatch and in the Swatch Name field, type Foil, in the Colour Type option select Spot and create a new Spot color with: C=100 / M=0 / Y=0 / K=0 and click OK.

This will create and add a new color named Foil to the Swatches palette.

4. Change the color of elements for foil printing

Select the Foil layer and color all elements in this layer with the Foil color.

Convert the Foil color to Overprint (Window > Output > Attributes)!

5. Check the elements you want to print with foil

If you turn off Layer 1, you can verify whether you have selected all the elements that you want to print with foil.

6. Export the file as a PDF

When you have completed the file in InDesign, you must export it as a PDF file for printing.

In the File menu, select Export and name the file as desired.

1. In the Adobe PDF Presets tab, select PDF/X-3:2002.

2. In the Compatibility section, select Acrobat 6 (PDF 1.5).

3. Check Create Acrobat Layers.

4. In the Marks and Bleeds tab, uncheck Crop Marks, and in the Bleed and Slug option, uncheck Use Document Bleed Settings.

5. In the Colour Conversion tab, select Convert to Destination and in the Destination tab, select Coated FOGRA 39 (for coated paper) or Uncoated FOGRA 29 (for uncoated paper).

6. Click Export to export the file as a PDF.

7. PDF file

In Adobe Acrobat Pro, open the PDF file, check the number of layers, and in the Output Preview check the separations.

It is important that along with the process colors (CMYK), you also see the Spot separation named Foil!

Example of a file for metallic foil printing: Download!

Classic Hot-Foil / Embossing / Debossing

Classic Hot Foil and Embossing

Hot foil - classic hot foil printing is a special printing technique that requires the use of heat and pressure to transfer foil onto the material. Unlike digital hot foil printing, this method requires the creation of a die made from brass, magnesium, or steel, which ensures resistance to high temperatures and precision in transferring details. The design is engraved in relief into the die, which is then used to transfer the design onto the printing surface.

The metalized foil used in printing consists of several layers: a transparent polyester base, a metallic layer (metallic coating that determines the final appearance such as gold, silver, copper, holograms), and an adhesive layer that is activated by heat and enables the transfer to the printing material.

Embossing - blind or deep embossing is a technique used to create three-dimensional patterns or motifs. The process involves creating two dies (matrix, counter-matrix). The printing material is placed between the matrix and counter-matrix, and the machine uses pressure to deform the material according to the shape of the die, creating either a raised or recessed pattern. The print can be raised (embossing - the motif is raised above the material surface) or recessed (debossing - the motif is pressed into the material).

Both techniques can be used individually or in combination (blind + hot foil printing).

Preparing Files for Hot Foil or Blind Embossing

Regardless of which type of enhancement you choose, you need to prepare a file for printing that clearly indicates where the metallic foil or blind embossing will be applied on the printed material.

In both cases, the elements for printing must be vector-based and marked in their SPOT color, which can be named, for example, gold foil, silver foil, blind embossing, etc. Based on the vector graphic, the die for hot foil or blind embossing will be created.

We recommend preparing your files in Adobe Illustrator or Adobe InDesign. If you are using a different design program, keep in mind that we require a PDF file that clearly defines which elements are printed with foil and which with blind embossing.

The PDF file for hot foil printing must have two layers: Layer 1 = Design - CMYK + Layer 2 = Foil - spot color / Overprint fill+stroke.

The PDF file for blind embossing must have two layers: Layer 1 = Design - CMYK + Layer 2 = Emboss - spot color / Overprint fill+stroke.

The PDF file for hot foil + blind embossing must have three layers: Layer 1 = Design - CMYK + Layer 2 = Foil - spot color / Overprint fill+stroke + Layer 3 = Emboss or Deboss - spot color / Overprint fill+stroke.

The name of the spot color can be anything (e.g., Gold Foil, Silver Foil, Blind Embossing...), but it is important that each enhancement is logically named, placed in its own layer, and set to overprint! The composition of the color for each spot separation can be customized!

Cut-Contour

Contour Cutting, Die-Cutting

To create graphic products in irregular shapes, the product must be precisely trimmed into the desired shape during the finishing stage. We can choose between two cutting methods.

The first is contour cutting or CNC cutting, where pre-printed material is inserted into a computer-controlled cutter. The cutter then precisely cuts any shape from the printed media.

Contour cutting is most commonly used for cutting stickers or text from self-adhesive film and cutting special shapes from rigid materials such as Forex, Dibond, plexiglass, Microval, EB-val...

The advantage of the computer-controlled cutting technique is that the tool manufacturing cost is eliminated, but because of slower production, it is only suitable for lower print runs or larger dimension products.

Die-cutting is a technique that requires the production of a cutting tool (Die-Cut), which is inserted into a machine and cuts the material into the final shape by applying pressure.

This technique is chosen for graphic products with higher print runs. Graphic products that are die-cut with the help of a cutting tool include all products in irregular shapes (business folders, boxes, roll-to-roll labels...).

We recommend creating a print-ready file with contour cutting in Adobe Illustrator or Corel Draw!

Preparing the File for Contour Cutting: Adobe Illustrator

For computer-controlled contour cutting, you need to add a cut line in the print file to indicate where exactly the cutter will cut.

The vector cut line (stroke) should be created in a spot color (Overprint Stroke) and named Cut.

Our example shows the creation of a cut line in Adobe Illustrator.

In the Symbols palette, we selected a random vector image named Gerbera.

1. In the Layer palette, create a new Layer and name it Cut.

Copy the image from Layer 1 (Edit>Copy or CTRL+C) and paste it into the Cut Layer (Edit>Paste in Place or SHIFT+CTRL+V). Lock Layer 1.

2. In the toolbar, open Effect>Path>Offset Path, and enter 3 mm in Offset, select Round for Joins, Miter limit 4, and click OK.

3. In the toolbar, open Object and click Expand Appearance, open the Pathfinder window (Window>Pathfinder), and in Shape modes, click Unite.

4. In the Window>Swatches>New Swatch palette, create a new spot color (CMYK: 0/100/0/0) and name it Cut.

Change the object’s Fill to Stroke;

5. In the Window>Attributes tab, check the Overprint box for the Cut color;

6. Image 6 shows the file prepared for printing and contour cutting, where the outer Cut line shows where the product will be cut.

Exporting the File to PDF:

Once the file is complete, it must be exported to a PDF file for printing.

In the File menu, select Save As and name the file as desired, following the instructions below:

1. In the Adobe PDF Presets tab, choose PDF/X-3:2002;

2. In the Compatibility section, select Acrobat 6 (PDF 1.5);

3. Check the Create Acrobat Layers box;

4. In the Colour Conversion tab, select Convert to Destination, and in the Destination tab, select Coated FOGRA 39;

5. Click Save PDF to save the document.

VDP - Variable data printing

Personalization, Numbering

Personalization - VDP (Variable Data Printing) is a form of on-demand printing, where elements such as graphics, text, or images are linked to a data source (MS EXCEL) and printed differently on each graphic product based on the data.

One example is a sales flyer with the same (static) graphic design, where names and addresses (variable) change.

Variable printing is mainly used for direct marketing, customer relationship management, advertising, invoicing, brochure covers, catalogs, books, postcards, invitations, calendars, tickets, coupons, contracts...

We also offer services for generating and printing EAN, UPC, QR, Data Matrix, ISBN codes...

For printing personalized materials or variable data, we require a PDF file and a data source in a Microsoft Excel file.

Instructions for Preparing a PDF File with Variable Data

The example shows how to prepare for printing variable data on a flyer:

1. Prepare the variable data in a Microsoft Excel file (1);

2. Send the graphic preparation in two separate PDF documents.

The first document should show where exactly you want the variable data to be printed, also provide us with the font name, font size, font color...;

3. In the second PDF document or Print File, leave the field for printing variable data (3) empty.

The example shows numbering or pagination of the printed material:

1. The PDF file in image 1 shows possible finishing options, such as hole punching (2), perforation (3), and where exactly the variable data should appear.

For printing variable data, we also need information about the font name, font size, font color, and which number the numbering should start and end with;

2. The PDF file for printing or print file (5) should not show any finishing options or numbering fields!

File does not have a bleed extension!

The file does not have a bleed extension!

What is Bleed?
Bleed is an extension added for trimming, compensating for paper deformation during printing. Always keep in mind that the permissible tolerance in printing (business cards, flyers, books...) is from 0.5 to 1 mm (side A / side B).

Paper is a flat material made from wood pulp, which means it slightly stretches (moisture + pressure from rollers) or contracts (heat).

That’s why we always print the material 3 mm larger on each side to ensure that despite material deformation, no unwanted white edges appear on side B of the final product.

Therefore, whenever the print is cut to size, prepare the file with a bleed extension (+3 mm on each side).

For some stretchable materials (large format printing), a bleed extension of up to 50 mm may be required.

Example: Business card 85x54 mm
Final trimmed size: 85x54 mm
File size with bleed extension: 91x60 mm

Image 1: the file includes the bleed extension - correct!

Image 2: the file does not have a bleed extension - incorrect!

Graphic elements are too close to the trim edge!

Safe Area - MARGINS - Graphic elements are too close to the trim line!

What are Margins?
Margins are the so-called safe area, which is moved inwards from the trim edge by at least 3 mm. The reasons for considering the safe area are the same as those described for the bleed extension (paper deformation).

If graphic elements are too close to the trim line, it can easily happen that they get cut off on side B!

Therefore, always make sure to move graphic elements such as text, images, and logos at least 3-5 mm from the trim edge (single-sheet prints like flyers, business cards, brochures)!

When preparing files for printing catalogs and books, consider a larger minimum distance from the trim edge:

- Spiral binding (calendars, yearbooks...): where the print is spiral bound, ensure a distance of at least 15 mm;

- Stapling (catalogs, notebooks, booklets...): we recommend a minimum margin of at least 10 mm from the trim edges;

- Soft or hard binding (brochures, books...): we recommend a minimum margin of at least 10 mm (top, bottom) and at least 15 mm or more (left, right);

Image 1: the file includes the safe area - correct!

Image 2: the file does not include the safe area - incorrect!

Resolution of the photos is too low!

Image Resolution

When preparing a document for printing, pay attention to the resolution of raster images that you want to print, as images with poor quality simply cannot be printed in high-quality resolution!

The required resolution for raster images when printing commercial materials is between 250-300 dpi, while for printing larger posters, a resolution of 150 dpi or higher is sufficient.

Read more!

Incorrect text color!

Text

The fonts or text you use in your print file should always be vector-based (do not create fonts in Photoshop!).

For black text, smaller than 72 pt (about 20 mm in height), use only black (K=100%) and not all four process colors (see image 3).

The minimum font size should not be smaller than 5 pt (K=100%) or 7 pt (K= 30-70%).

Avoid using fonts with thin lines (light) for reversed text (white text on a black background), where the minimum font size is 8 pt.

Read more!

File is in RGB color space!

RGB color space

Images used in your document should be converted to the CMYK color space.

We recommend editing images in Adobe Photoshop, first converting them from RGB to CMYK before proceeding with further edits.

If your file contains RGB images, they will be automatically converted to CMYK before printing. In most cases, this will result in images appearing slightly darker.

Additionally, the intensity of certain colors may change, as some colors visible only on monitors cannot be accurately reproduced in CMYK, due to monitors having a broader color gamut.

Monitors can display more vibrant colors than can be printed using CMYK colors.

Read more!

Folded flyers - folding positions

Folded flyer - page width is incorrect or pages are arranged incorrectly!

When preparing a file for printing brochures or folded documents, pay attention to the correct arrangement and page width!

If you do not consider the page width, the brochure may not fold exactly where you intended (image 2 - design placed too close to the fold line).

We recommend preparing your brochure using our pre-made templates, which are designed to the exact dimensions and include accurate fold lines. Also, we recommend keeping graphic elements at least 3 mm away from the fold line (left and right - image 1).

Blank templates (ID, AI) can be found on the "Calculation" subpage under the "Add to Cart" button (in the "Blank Templates" tab - image 3).

If you're preparing a brochure (C-fold) on your own, keep in mind that the page widths in a C-fold brochure are not equal!

Example:

A4 brochure - C-fold (open format 297x210 mm / closed format 100x210 mm)

Page 5 = 97 mm, page 6 = 100 mm, page 1 = 100 mm
Page 2 = 100 mm, page 3 = 100 mm, page 4 = 97 mm

Brochure 3xA4 - C-fold (open format 628x297 mm / closed format 210x297 mm )

Page 5 = 208 mm, page 6 = 210 mm, page 1 = 210 mm
Page 2 = 210 mm, page 3 = 210 mm, page 4 = 208 mm

Catalogues - Number of pages is not divisible by 4!

Catalogues, booklets - page count not divisible by 4, incorrect assembly!

When preparing a file for printing catalogs or booklets, pay attention to the page count. If you want all pages in the catalog to be printed, the total number of pages must be divisible by four (8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36 pages, etc.).

For example, if you have only 18 pages, two pages in the catalog will be blank or empty. In this case, the empty/blank page in the catalog is usually the cover, which would be the second and second-to-last page. The cover would then be printed 4/0.

Please make sure to add the blank/empty pages in the file where you want them to appear!

Always send the print-ready file in one PDF (as Pages, never as Spreads!), and the pages in the print file should follow from the first to the last page (the printed catalog will be flipped according to this order!)

If you have a thicker cover, you can create two separate PDF files and name them appropriately, such as catalog-insert.pdf and catalog-cover.pdf. In this case, pages in the PDF file should also follow the sequence from the first to the last page!

We handle the assembly for printing catalogs (Booklet), so do not create the assembly yourself - the pages in the PDF document should follow from page 1 onward!

Brochures - The thickness of the cover R is not considered!

Books, brochures - The thickness of the book block (R) is not considered in the cover!

In practice, a common mistake occurs where the cover is too short due to not accounting for the spine thickness.

To correctly prepare the cover length, you need to know the information about the book block thickness (R) in mm, which you then add to the cover length.

The information about the spine thickness or width can be found on the "Calculation" subpage (1).

Based on the choice of material for printing and the number of pages, the application will calculate the exact spine thickness R.

Along with the spine thickness (R), the final cover dimension is also provided, which includes the spine thickness (brochure width x2 + R).

Please consider this printed dimension when preparing the cover!

For brochures or books, always send the file for printing in two separate PDF documents, named sensibly, for example book block.pdf and cover.pdf.

Send the book block file as one PDF document, with pages following from the first to the last page (see image 3).

The minimum number of pages for binding is 40 pages or 32 pages for thread-sewn brochures!

Pay attention to the number of pages in the book block, which must be divisible by 2 (42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52 pages...), or by 4 (32, 36, 40, 44, 48 pages...) for thread-sewn brochures!

If the number of pages in your book block doesn't work out, please add blank (white) pages so that the page count in the file is always divisible by 2 or 4!

Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, Canva!

To ensure the best possible print quality and avoid delays or additional costs, we would like to highlight some important facts regarding file preparation for printing. Programs such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Canva, are not designed for professional print file preparation!

Common issues when using these programs include:

• Incorrect color profiles - files contain RGB color schemes, which are not suitable for printing (requires CMYK)!
• Incorrect image resolution - images inserted into these programs often do not have sufficient resolution (300 dpi), leading to blurry or poor-quality prints!
• Layout issues - the layout can lose accuracy when exported to PDF, causing shifts or distortion of elements.
• Missing or incorrectly embedded fonts - fonts used may automatically be replaced when opened on other devices, resulting in printing issues!
• Crop marks - Microsoft programs do not support these directly, so increase the document size for this addition (e.g., A4: 216 x 303 mm instead of 210 x 297 mm)!
• Transparency - transparency in Word, PowerPoint works in RGB mode, meaning it's not suitable for printing (which uses CMYK), and the transparency features are basic, with no advanced adjustments such as gradients or layers! When color profiles in the PDF file are different or have varying definitions for blending transparency.

Image 1:
Shows a background with a vector fill R=G=B, overlaid with RGB images and vector graphics using transparency effects (Drop Shadow & Reflection). Acrobat PDFMaker converts all text and vector objects with R=G=B values to DeviceGray, and all other vector elements and images are converted to ICC Adobe RGB. The PDF exported from Microsoft PowerPoint using Acrobat PDFMaker converts all text and vector objects with R=G=B values to grayscale (DeviceGray). This looks fine on screen as Acrobat/Reader displays the document in RGB color space.

Image 2:
The print result, shown in Image 2, differs. Visible differences and breaks in the shades of gray and black in shadow areas and reflections can be seen. The use of DeviceGray and ICC Adobe RGB for different elements and the unnecessary transparency group with ICC Adobe RGB color space causes inconsistencies in printing. Mixing different color spaces causes distortion in the background, with visible differences and breaks in shades of gray and black in shadow and reflection areas. The solution is manually correcting the document. All elements with DeviceGray profiles need to be converted to DeviceCMYK!

Canva is a popular and accessible design tool that allows quick and easy preparation of visual materials, including basic printed materials such as business cards or flyers. Although Canva is not fully optimized for professional printing, it can be adjusted for creating print files. Like Microsoft, Canva uses RGB as the default color space, which is not ideal for printing (which requires CMYK). When exporting the file, Canva automatically optimizes the colors for print, but it's recommended to further check for color differences. For printed materials where color consistency is critical, consider converting the PDF to CMYK using a tool like Adobe Acrobat or similar software!

We would like to warn you that programs like Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Canva are not suitable for professional file preparation for printing. These programs often cause issues like incorrect color profiles (RGB instead of CMYK), low image resolution, or missing crop marks (bleed), which can negatively affect the quality of the final product. We recommend that you work with or hire an experienced DTP operator or graphic designer who can prepare a technically correct file using professional programs like Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, or CorelDRAW. This way, you avoid additional correction costs and ensure that your print meets expectations.

Important:

The printer is the professional who operates the printing machines. Their job is to transfer the digital file to the printing material using various printing techniques, and they are responsible for the physical execution of the print, working directly with the equipment to ensure a quality output that meets industry standards.

The DTP operator (Desktop Publishing Operator) is a professional responsible for preparing files for printing. Their job is to convert the design concept into a technically correct file that meets printing requirements, ensuring a flawless final product. DTP operator tasks: page layout and setup, setting the correct color space (CMYK), adding bleed, preparing files in the appropriate PDF format, checking image resolution (300 dpi), converting fonts to curves, and ensuring the file meets the technical requirements of the printer, finding and correcting any errors in the files (e.g., missing images, incorrect fonts), performing preflight checks to ensure compliance with industry standards...

At Demago Print, we are excellent printers! Files prepared in unsuitable programs (e.g., Word, PowerPoint, Canva) are outside our technical standards and cannot be claimed. If such files are used for printing, we print at the client's own risk!

For the best result and flawless print experience, we ask you to follow our instructions and recommendations or contact us for further information and assistance. We will be happy to advise or recommend external experts for preparing your files.

If you generated the PDF file in Word, PowerPoint, or Canva and want to check its print compatibility, simply send it to us. Automated PDF file checking software will automatically review your file. Within a few minutes, you will receive the result of your PDF file review via email. This service is available 24/7 and is free!

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

Click the button, attach your PDF, and wait a few minutes. You will receive a confirmation email and, within a few minutes, feedback on whether your file is suitable or not.

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Software for creating PDF files

When creating a PDF file for printing, consider the following:

Adobe INDESIGN

Adobe INDESIGN - Instructions for Preparing a PDF File

Export Settings for PDF File for Printing:

Adobe ILLUSTRATOR

Adobe ILLUSTRATOR - instructions for preparing a PDF file

Settings for exporting a PDF file for printing:

Adobe PHOTOSHOP

Adobe PHOTOSHOP - instructions for preparing a PDF file

Settings for exporting a PDF file for printing:

Corel DRAW

Corel DRAW - Instructions for preparing a PDF file

Settings for exporting a PDF file for printing:

Single-sheet products

Multi-page publications

Roll labels

When creating a PDF file for printing, please consider the following:

What is HP IndiChrome?

Preparing a File for Printing with Pantone Colors

Special finishes

What is UV Spot - Partial Varnishing?

Preparing a File for Partial 3D UV Varnishing

Preparing a File for 3D UV Spot Varnishing: Adobe InDesign

Preparing a File for 3D UV Spot Varnishing: Adobe Illustrator

What is Digital Thermal Printing?

Preparing a File for Digital Thermal Printing

Preparing a File for Foil Printing: Adobe InDesign

Classic Hot Foil and Embossing

Preparing Files for Hot Foil or Blind Embossing

Custom shapes, variable data printing

Contour Cutting, Die-Cutting

Preparing the File for Contour Cutting: Adobe Illustrator

Exporting the File to PDF:

Personalization, Numbering

Instructions for Preparing a PDF File with Variable Data

Most common mistakes