Guide
Print-ready PDF, PNG and JPG files, explained
A print-ready file is the exact finished size, plus 3mm of bleed on every edge, at 300 dpi. That's the whole idea. And if your file isn't print-ready, you can still upload it: we prepare it for you and show you the proof.
What is bleed?
Printers print on a slightly larger sheet and trim it down. Bleed is the extra 3mm of background past the edge, so that if the cut is a fraction out, you don't get a thin white line. Keep words and faces at least 5mm inside the edge (the safe area).
Exact sizes for a 7×5 inches (178×127mm) invitation
| Finished (trim) size | 127 × 178 mm |
|---|---|
| With 3mm bleed | 133 × 184 mm |
| Pixels at 300 dpi (with bleed) | 1571 × 2173 px |
| Safe area | 5mm inside the trim edge |
PDF, PNG or JPG: which is best?
- PDF: best for designs with lots of text. Lettering stays crisp.
- PNG: great for designs and graphics, with no quality loss.
- JPG: fine for photos. Save at high quality.
What happens when you upload
- Exact size with bleed: we print it exactly as supplied.
- Exact size, no bleed: we extend the edges by 3mm, so nothing inside the cut line changes.
- Any other size or shape: we fit it to the card. You choose “Fill the card” or “Show whole picture” and see the proof.
- Too small to print sharply: we tell you plainly before you pay.
Using Canva? See how to download a Canva design for printing.
Print-ready file questions
What does print-ready PDF mean?
A PDF at the exact finished size plus bleed (usually 3mm per edge), with images at 300 dpi and text kept inside the safe area.
Do I need crop marks?
Not for us. Crop marks are for trade printers. Upload your file without them.
What dpi do I need for printing?
300 dpi at the printed size is ideal. Around 150 dpi is acceptable at arm's length. Below that, prints look soft.
Can I print a PNG or JPG full page?
Yes. Choose “Fill the card” and we scale it to cover the whole card, including bleed. The proof shows anything that gets trimmed.