Print Specifications
At Access Print Holdings, we understand that clear communication and precise details are key to producing high-quality printed materials. To ensure your projects meet the highest standards, we’ve compiled all the essential print specifications you’ll need for a smooth and successful process.
Whether you're preparing files for print or selecting the right paper and finishes, this page is here to guide you through every step.
Our goal is to support you with the information you need to bring your creative vision to life with ease and confidence!
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Providing Your Artwork
To ensure the best possible print result, it’s important to optimise your files. If you’ve never created print-ready artwork before, reach out to us early during your design process. With years of experience, we’re here to make sure everything goes smoothly and meets our print standards.
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Press Ready Files
For best results, your files should be high-resolution PDFs with bleed and trim marks included. Images need to be 300-350dpi, and the colour space should always be set to CMYK. We prefer each job to be submitted as a single PDF file, with each page or side as a separate page within that same file.
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Bleed & Trim Marks
We recommend adding 3mm of external bleed on all artwork files. This ensures that when your design is printed and then trimmed, there won’t be any unwanted white edges. As an example, if your final print size is 90mm x 55mm, your artwork should be 96mm x 61mm to account for the bleed.
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Internal Buffer (Safe Zone)
Keep your important design elements safe! To avoid having key parts (like text or logos) trimmed off, leave a 3mm internal buffer from the trim edge. For booklets, the internal buffer increases with the number of pages: 6mm for up to 30 pages, 10mm for 32 to 50 pages, and 12mm for anything over 50 pages.
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Color Mode: CMYK vs. RGB
Always set your artwork colour space to CMYK, as this is the standard for print. If your file is in RGB, it will be converted to CMYK, which can alter the appearance of your colours. If your project uses spot colours, ensure this is noted and quoted accordingly.
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File Types
Whenever possible, please supply your artwork as a high resolution PDF, with raster images at least 350-300dpi for best results. If your project is single-sided, provide a one-page PDF. For double-sided work, submit a two-page PDF. For jobs with multiple versions or types, provide a separate PDF for each version.
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Fonts
Make sure your fonts are embedded in your PDF (either fully or as a subset). This is standard in most PDFs, but if you’re submitting native files (such as InDesign or Illustrator files), include all the fonts you used so we can make any necessary adjustments.
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Monitor Colours vs. Print Colours
Keep in mind that colours on screen often look different when printed. If you’re particular about colour accuracy, we suggest running a proof or mock-up before proceeding with a full print run.
By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure your artwork is ready for high-quality, professional print. If you have any questions, our team is always here to help!
Download our handy specifications checklist here