Optimal Preparation of Print Data: Step-by-Step Guide

Designing with Your Own Graphic Software

  1. Start:
    Open or import page 2 of the layout template in your preferred graphic software: Data format = size of the design area.
  2. Data format:
    Do not change the scale or size of the layout template, as this will cause errors in the automatic data check.
  3. Design:
    Place the elements of your design within the template.
  4. Line weights:
    Adhere to the minimum line weights specified on the layout template to ensure readability of small elements such as fonts and QR codes.
  5. Safe area:
    Ensure all important elements are within the blue safety line.
  6. Bleed:
    Extend backgrounds and images to the red bleed line to avoid unwanted borders on the finished product.
  7. Markings:
    Be aware of additional elements such as eyelets, drill holes, or fold seams that may interfere with your design. These elements depend on the product and are not included in every template.
  8. Template lines:
    Do not use the colors of the template lines in your design.
  9. Transparencies:
    Do not use transparencies or halftone effects, as these can lead to undesirable print results. If these are essential for your design, please convert or rasterize these areas. Before converting halftone effects, ensure that the settings in the document halftone effect options match the specified resolution.
  10. Multiple page areas:
    If your desired product has multiple page areas, they are all located on page 2 of the template. Design all desired pages; non-designed areas will remain unprinted.
  11. Check:
    Review your file with zoom and preview to verify correct positioning.

Saving the Print File

  1. Remove template:
    Always remove all control paths. Simply hiding the template lines is insufficient, as this causes errors in the automatic data check.
  2. Check data format:
    Ensure the data format matches the specification on the layout template exactly.
  3. Check resolution:
    If you use pixel data in your design, verify that the images are inserted at the required resolution. Also, review the document halftone effect settings.
  4. Fonts:
    Are all fonts converted to paths? Alternatively, you can embed the fonts in the PDF.
  5. File format:
    For automatic print data checking, save the file in one of the following formats: PDF, TIFF, TIF, JPEG, JPG.
    • PDF: Preferably use our PDF job options, which preset all important save options.
    • TIFF/TIF: When using spot color channels (special colors) in TIFF, ensure these are saved with the file.
    • JPEG/JPG: Use minimal compression, as this strongly affects data quality.

Note: No registration marks, crop marks, or print control strips may be created. For complex image montages, keep individual layers in the file and convert layer effects into a separate layer.

Submitting the File to the Print Shop

Upload your final print file under My Account Data Upload  . If you have questions or uncertainties, we are happy to assist you in the live chat.

By uploading your print data, you confirm your design and simultaneously release it for the print data check.
You will receive a report for both the free standard data check and the optionally selectable professional data check. If the print data complies with Vispronet® specifications, the order will be immediately released for printing.

If you have selected the proof or color-accurate proof option, you will also be informed about the release before printing begins.

Notes on Print Data Preparation (Digital Printing) & Print Data Preparation (Screen Printing)