Prepare better files. Make better print decisions.
Clear, practical guidance for avoiding common file problems and choosing specifications that fit how the finished piece will actually be used.
File preparation and print planning, explained
Start with the eight-page booklet example for page counting or the Canva export guide for finished artwork. The guides include original planning illustrations, practical checks and related print services. Updated September 5, 2026.
Prepare a print-ready file
Start with page dimensions, export settings, bleed, margins, image quality, and a careful check of the final PDF.
Canva PDF Print: Bleed & Crop Marks
Learn how to export Canva designs for professional printing, including page size, bleed, PDF Print settings, image quality and a final file check.
Read the 6-minute guide →Prepress guidePrint-Ready PDF Checklist for Printing
Use this print-ready PDF checklist to check size, bleed, margins, resolution, fonts, page order and color before sending files to a Charlotte printer.
Read the 7-minute guide →Print design basicsBleed, Safe Area & Resolution Explained
Understand print bleed, trim, safe area and image resolution, including common 0.125-inch bleed and 300 PPI guidance for commercial printing.
Read the 8-minute guide →Plan the finished product
Choose specifications around how plans, booklets, and banners will be used in the real world.
Booklet Page Counts & Binding Options
Plan booklet page counts and compare saddle stitch, coil and Wire-O binding for programs, manuals and booklets printed in Charlotte.
Read the 9-minute guide →Construction printing guideBlueprint File & Scale Guide for Plans
Prepare blueprint PDFs with the correct sheet size, scale, page order, color, set count and finishing instructions for Charlotte plan printing.
Read the 8-minute guide →Large-format guideBanner sizing and viewing-distance guide
Choose the right banner size, text height, image resolution, material and finishing based on viewing distance, location and installation needs.
Read the 8-minute guide →Product requirements can change with the job.
Final size, paper, equipment, binding, finishing, installation, and deadline can change the correct file setup. Include those details so we can review your specific project.
Send a file for reviewHave the file but not the specification?
Tell us the intended use, quantity, and deadline. We can help narrow down practical size, stock, color, and finishing choices.