Canva:<\/strong> Works natively in RGB. The paid “Print” export option converts to CMYK on download, but colour shift risk is higher than working in a native CMYK environment. For important print jobs, download the highest-quality PDF from Canva and then convert and verify in a dedicated CMYK tool before uploading. Canva is fine for simple, colour-tolerant projects; less suitable for colour-critical work.<\/p>\n![\"a](\"https:\/\/printshop.paperlust.co\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/w2-n29-inl4-dd.jpeg\")
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Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\nWhat happens if I upload an RGB file?<\/h3>\n
Most printers, including automated print portals, will auto-convert RGB to CMYK during preflighting. The conversion uses a standard algorithm that maps out-of-gamut colours to their nearest printable equivalent. For simple designs with flat brand colours, the shift is minimal. For photography, bright neons, or colour-critical brand work, the auto-conversion can shift hues noticeably. Converting yourself gives you control over how the shift is handled.<\/p>\n
My design looks great on screen. Why does the print look different?<\/h3>\n
Screen brightness, contrast, and the RGB colour space make most designs look more vivid on screen than they will on paper. Calibrate your monitor if possible, and use soft-proofing (Photoshop > View > Proof Colours; Illustrator > View > Proof Colours) with your target CMYK profile to simulate how the print will look before you send the file.<\/p>\n
How do I know if my images are 300 DPI?<\/h3>\n
In Photoshop, go to Image > Image Size with “Resample” unchecked and enter your final print dimensions. The DPI field will show the true resolution at that size. In Illustrator or InDesign, right-click an image and select “Edit original” to open it in Photoshop. Alternatively, right-click the file in Finder\/Explorer, choose Properties\/Get Info, and look at the image dimensions. Divide pixels by inches to get DPI.<\/p>\n
Do I need to outline fonts if I am exporting as PDF?<\/h3>\n
Not necessarily. PDF\/X-1a and PDF\/X-4 both require fonts to be embedded, and most export workflows handle this automatically with the right settings. However, outlining is a belt-and-suspenders approach that eliminates any risk of font issues entirely. The downside is that outlined text cannot be edited, so always keep the working file with live fonts.<\/p>\n
What is the difference between PDF\/X-1a and PDF\/X-4?<\/h3>\n
PDF\/X-1a is an older standard that prohibits RGB, transparency, and ICC profiles. It forces everything into CMYK. PDF\/X-4 is more modern and allows managed colour and transparency layers, which modern RIP (raster image processor) software handles correctly. PDF\/X-4 is generally preferred for current workflows. Use PDF\/X-1a only if your printer specifically requests it.<\/p>\n
My logo is black. Should I use K100 or rich black?<\/h3>\n
Depends on the size. For small logos, fine text, and anything with sharp edges or thin strokes, use K100 only. Rich black (C60 M40 Y40 K100) on fine lines causes registration blur where the four ink plates sit very slightly offset from each other, making edges look fuzzy. Save rich black for large background fills and oversized display text.<\/p>\n
What is the safe zone and why does it matter?<\/h3>\n
The safe zone is the area 3-5mm inside the trim line. Anything outside this zone risks being clipped when the sheet is cut. Cutters are accurate but not perfect, and a tolerance of 1-2mm in either direction is standard. Keeping logos, important text, and faces inside the safe zone ensures they are never clipped.<\/p>\n
Can I submit a JPEG or PNG instead of a PDF?<\/h3>\n
Most print suppliers accept high-resolution JPEGs (flatten layers, save at maximum quality, check the colour mode is CMYK). PNG is generally not recommended for print because it is designed for screen use and defaults to RGB. If a JPEG is submitted, the printer’s preflight software will check resolution and colour mode. PDF is preferred because it bundles colour settings, bleed marks, and fonts in one file, reducing the chance of any element being misconfigured.<\/p>\n
Get Your Print Jobs Right the First Time<\/h2>\n
Setting up artwork correctly is a one-time learning curve. Once the CMYK, 300 DPI, 3mm bleed, and PDF\/X-4 habits are built in, files go through without rejections.<\/p>\n
Paperlust Print Shop provides print specifications and templates for every product to make this easier. Start with flyers<\/a> for everyday marketing collateral, posters<\/a> for large-format event and retail display, or business cards<\/a> for professional identity pieces. Each product page includes the specs your file needs to meet.<\/p>\n
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