Welcome back to the second part of our fun and playful guide to creating print-ready PDFs! In Part 1, we covered some common pitfalls like low-resolution images and missing bleeds. But there’s more to know! Let’s jump right back into it with some additional tips to ensure your print files are always top-notch!
11. Incorrect ICC Profiles: Color Confusion!
Color accuracy is key when printing, and using the wrong ICC profile can turn your colors from fab to drab. ICC (International Color Consortium) profiles help your printer reproduce colors as accurately as possible. Make sure your file uses the correct profile for print (usually CMYK) to avoid unexpected color shifts!
12. Output Intent: Getting the Color Right
Similar to ICC profiles, output intent is crucial for getting the colors you expect in the final print. Sometimes files meant for digital screens end up being printed, which can cause your colors to look totally off. Always double-check the output intent to ensure your design prints as intended!
13. Spot Colors vs. CMYK: The Color Conversion Crisis
Converting spot colors (like Pantone) to CMYK can result in colors that are slightly (or even completely) off. Spot colors are designed for precise matching, while CMYK printing mixes four colors to try and replicate those hues. If you must convert, be prepared for some color variation—but it’s always best to leave spot colors alone!
14. Problems with Flattened Transparency
Flattening transparency can mess with your design’s appearance. This happens when transparent elements, like shadows or glow effects, are simplified for printing. Sometimes, flattening can cause weird artifacts like white boxes or color changes. If your design uses transparency, double-check that it’s flattened correctly to avoid print-time surprises!
15. Incorrect Number of Spot Colors: Don’t Overdo It!
Some designs sneak in multiple spot colors with different names, even though they’re the same shade. This can create printing issues and extra costs. Make sure to clean up your file and keep it simple by using only the necessary number of spot colors.
16. Overprinting Errors: When Colors Don’t Play Nice
Overprinting is great for special effects, but sometimes it causes colors to disappear or become hard to read, especially with small text or thin lines. To avoid this, always preview your overprinting settings to ensure everything is legible and your design pops as it should!
17. Technical Elements Not Defined Properly: Die-Cut Dilemmas
If your print project involves die-cutting, embossing, or spot varnishing, make sure these elements are clearly marked in your PDF. For example, die lines should be named as "dieline" and set to overprint. If not defined correctly, your print shop might miss these special instructions, leading to delays and mistakes.
18. File Dimensions Don’t Match: Size Does Matter
When you send a file to print, make sure it’s the exact size you need. If you’re designing a business card, your PDF should be the size of the finished card, including bleed. Sending the wrong dimensions can cause printing delays and rework, so always check your file size before hitting send!
19. Flattened Transparency Causing Problems
When transparency gets flattened incorrectly, thin white lines can show up, or colors can shift unexpectedly. Flattening transparency divides your design into areas of vectors and rasterized images. Make sure this is handled correctly to avoid glitches in your printed project.
20. Colors Are Out of Gamut
Some RGB or bright colors like pure blue or neon green just can’t be accurately reproduced with CMYK printing. To avoid disappointment, use the "Proof Colors" function to preview what your design will look like when printed in CMYK. This trick can save you a lot of headaches!
Final Thoughts
With these 20 common PDF errors in mind, you’re well on your way to becoming a print pro! Avoiding these mistakes will save you time, money, and stress—and ensure your print projects come out looking fantastic every single time.
Still hungry for more tips? Stay tuned to our blog at www.kultkawaii.com for more fun guides and design tips to take your projects to the next level!
Happy printing!