Get your PDF print-ready

Frequently asked questions

What does “print-ready” mean?

A print-ready PDF meets the technical requirements a printer needs: it uses CMYK color, all fonts are embedded, it follows the PDF/X standard and — for designs that run to the edge — it has bleed. Our tools bring your file up to that standard.

What is PDF/X and which version do I need?

PDF/X is the ISO standard for exchanging print files. PDF/X-4 is the modern default and works for almost all printers; some ask for PDF/X-1a or X-3. Also ask which print profile your printer wants (for example FOGRA51 for coated paper or ISOnewspaper26v4 for a newspaper) — you choose it when converting to PDF/X-4.

Why does my printer want CMYK instead of RGB?

Screens show color in RGB, but presses print with CMYK inks. If you send RGB, the press converts it with unpredictable color shifts. Converting with your printer's profile yourself keeps colors predictable. If you also need the PDF/X-4 marking, use PDF/X-4: it converts your colors to the same profile and adds the marking.

What is bleed and how much do I need?

Bleed is extra image area beyond the trim line so no white edges appear if cutting is slightly off. Most printers want 3 mm. Note: real bleed needs your design to extend to the edge; adding bleed only sets up the area and boxes.

Why must fonts be embedded?

If a font is not embedded, the printer’s system substitutes another font and your text shifts or changes. Embedding stores the fonts inside the PDF so it prints exactly as you designed it.

Is the check free and do I need an account?

The print-ready check is free and needs no account. The fixes use credits: 1 per file for the single-purpose tools, 4 for RGB to CMYK, the all-in-one and PDF/X-4. Those three need a paid package; for the other tools new accounts start with free credits so you can try. RGB to CMYK, PDF/X-4 and the all-in-one (with PDF/X on) first show you a free color preview.