Top Graphic Design Blunders to Sidestep for Flawless Printing

When it comes to transforming a digital design into a tangible print product, the process can be fraught with potential pitfalls. At Printing Peach, we understand that the transition from screen to print isn’t always straightforward. Here’s a rundown of common graphic design errors that you should avoid to ensure your printed materials are as stunning in hand as they are on your monitor.

Not Accounting for Bleed

One of the most critical mistakes in print design is neglecting to include a bleed. A bleed is the area of your design that extends past the trim edge of where your print will be cut. This extra space is crucial because it prevents unprinted edges from occurring in the final product. Always ensure your design extends into the bleed area to achieve a seamless look across every edge of your print.

Ignoring Print Resolution

While digital designs can look great at lower resolutions, print materials do not afford the same leniency. For a crisp, clear print, your images and graphics should be designed at a resolution of at least 300 dots per inch (DPI). Using images with a DPI lower than 300 can result in a blurry, pixelated print, which can significantly detract from the professionalism of your design.

Choosing the Wrong Color Mode

RGB vs. CMYK: Remember, screens display color in RGB (red, green, blue), but printers use CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black). This discrepancy can lead to significant differences in color output if not adjusted beforehand. Always convert your design to CMYK before sending it to print to avoid unexpected color shifts.

Overlooking Font and Text Issues

Typography is a cornerstone of good design, especially in print. Here are a few text-related issues to watch out for:

Font Embedding: Always make sure to embed or outline your fonts. If the printer does not have the fonts you used in your design, the text could be substituted automatically, altering the overall look.
Legibility: Keep your text legible by avoiding overly decorative fonts for small text and maintaining adequate contrast between the text and the background.

Complicated Designs

Simplicity often reigns supreme in the world of print. Complex designs with multiple elements, excessive colors, or intricate patterns can not only be costly but can also lead to a cluttered and confusing print. Aim for a clean, straightforward design that communicates your message clearly and effectively.

Need Expert Help With Your Print Design?

At Printing Peach, we’re passionate about helping our clients achieve the best possible results from their print marketing efforts. If you’re unsure about the setup of your design, or if you need professional advice on how to prepare your artwork for print, don’t hesitate to call us at 1-888-587-2383. Let’s make sure your next print project is a smashing success!