Good artwork helps us produce the best possible print. Use this guide before uploading your design to BIG Print Studio.
Preferred file format
PDF is our preferred format for finished print artwork because it usually preserves layout, fonts and dimensions reliably.
We can also accept high-resolution PNG, JPG, TIFF, SVG, AI and EPS files where the product upload field supports them.
Artwork size
Create your artwork at the same proportions as the product you are ordering. For example, an A1 poster should use the A-series proportions rather than a square or very wide layout.
If you are unsure about the exact dimensions, choose the product size first and contact us before ordering.
Resolution
For photographs and raster artwork, aim for high-resolution images. As a general guide, around 300 dpi at final print size is ideal for close-viewed print such as flyers, labels and smaller posters.
For very large-format work viewed from further away, lower effective resolution can sometimes be acceptable, but avoid screenshots, thumbnails and heavily compressed images wherever possible.
Bleed and safe area
For products that are cut to size, artwork may need bleed beyond the finished edge. Where possible, supply approximately 3 mm bleed on each side for small-format print unless the product specification states otherwise.
Keep important text, logos and faces away from the trim edge so small cutting tolerances do not affect essential content.
Colour
Screens use RGB light, while printed products use print colour processes. For that reason, printed colours can look slightly different from what you see on a phone, tablet or monitor.
If colour accuracy is important, avoid relying on screen appearance alone. Very bright neon-style RGB colours may not reproduce exactly in print.
Fonts
Where possible, export your final artwork as a PDF with fonts embedded or converted to outlines. This helps prevent font substitution or layout changes.
Logos and graphics
Vector artwork such as SVG, AI or EPS is ideal for logos because it can be enlarged without becoming pixelated. If you only have a PNG or JPG, upload the highest-resolution version available.
Photographs
Use original photographs where possible rather than images downloaded from messaging apps or social media, as these are often compressed and may print poorly at larger sizes.
Transparent backgrounds
If your design requires a transparent background, PNG or suitable vector artwork is normally preferable to JPG, which does not support transparency.
Spelling and personalisation
Please check names, dates, phone numbers, addresses, prices and all other wording carefully before submitting your order. We print from the information and artwork supplied by you.
Can you check my file?
We may contact you if we notice an obvious production issue, but our standard service does not include full proofreading, design correction or detailed artwork reconstruction.
If you need design help, contact us before ordering and explain what you need. Additional design work may be chargeable.
Uploading artwork
For products under Print Your Design, use the artwork upload field on the product page. For products in Personalised & Events, use the Personalisation Instructions box to tell us the names, dates, wording and changes required for the selected design.
Need help before ordering?
Email your question to bigprintstudio51@gmail.com and tell us which product and size you are considering.