1. Artwork Requirements Guide

    To make sure your designs print perfectly every time, please follow the artwork setup guidelines below. It’ll help avoid issues with cutting and ensure your final product looks exactly as you imagined.

  1.  1. Add a 3mm Bleed on All Sides

    What is bleed?
    Bleed is the area that extends beyond the final trim size of your design. We require a 3mm bleed on each edge. This allows for minor movement during trimming and ensures your artwork prints right to the edge without white borders.

    • For example:
      If your final product size is A5 (148mm x 210mm), your file size with bleed should be 154mm x 216mm.

  2. Final Checklist

    Before uploading, make sure:

    • Your file includes 3mm bleed on all sides
    • All important content is 3mm inside the trim line
    • Your file is 300dpi and in CMYK
    • Fonts are embedded or converted to outlines
    • Your file is flattened with no crop marks or printer marks

  3. 2. Keep Important Elements 3mm Inside the Trim Line

    Safe Zone (Quiet Area)
    To avoid accidentally cutting off text or key visuals, keep any important content (like logos, text, or borders) at least 3mm inside the final trim edge.

    • In total, this means important content should sit 6mm in from the edge of your document, including bleed.

  4. Ready to Upload?

    Once you’ve checked everything, go ahead and upload your artwork via our Artwork Uploader or email it to us at info@mainstreamcolour.com

    If you’re unsure about anything, we’re happy to help — just get in touch before placing your order.

  5. 3. File Format & Resolution

    • Preferred file type: PDF (with fonts embedded or outlined)
    • Other formats accepted: JPG, PNG, TIFF (high resolution)
    • Resolution: 300dpi at actual size
    • Colour mode: CMYK (not RGB)