File & Artwork Requirements
Print ready files are high resolution PDFs (300 DPI), in CMYK, with 0.125 inch bleed, and we accept most common design formats. Not sure your files qualify? Upload them and we will check them for free. Everything about formats, resolution, and prep is below.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Everything you need to know about ZOOGABOOG!, from getting started to shipping and everything in between.
File & Artwork Requirements
Everything you need to know about file formats, resolution, and artwork prep.
What file formats do you accept?
We accept: PDF, AI, EPS, PSD, INDD, PNG, JPG, SVG, Sketch, XD, Figma, TIFF, and BMP. For best results, upload high-resolution PDFs (300 DPI minimum).
What's the best file format for print?
PDF is best. Export as high-quality PDF with fonts embedded, CMYK color mode, and proper bleed. AI and EPS are also excellent for vector artwork.
What resolution should my files be?
Minimum 300 DPI for print products. Higher is fine (350-600 DPI). Lower resolution (72-150 DPI) will result in pixelated, blurry prints and won't be accepted.
What is bleed and do I need it?
Bleed is extra artwork extending beyond the trim line (usually 0.125" on all sides). Yes, you need it for any design with background color or images that go to the edge. Without bleed, you'll get white borders.
What is a safe area?
The safe area is 0.25" from all edges. Keep important text, logos, and design elements inside this zone to prevent them from being trimmed off during cutting.
Should I use CMYK or RGB color mode?
CMYK for print, RGB for digital. Printed products require CMYK. RGB colors will be converted to CMYK, which may result in color shifts (especially bright blues and greens).
Do I need to outline my fonts?
Yes, or embed them. Outlined fonts prevent font substitution errors. In Illustrator/InDesign, go to Type > Create Outlines. For PDFs, ensure fonts are embedded when exporting.
What's the maximum file size I can upload?
50MB per file. If your file is larger, try compressing images, removing unused layers, or splitting into multiple files. Contact us if you need to upload larger files.
How many files can I upload per order?
Depends on the product. Business cards: 2 files (front/back). Spot gloss: 4 files. Large projects: Multiple files. You'll see upload limits during order customization.
Can I upload a Word or PowerPoint file?
Not recommended. Word/PowerPoint aren't designed for professional printing (low resolution, formatting issues). Export to high-res PDF first, or use our design services to convert it properly.
What if I don't have print-ready files?
No problem! Use our design services or LiveDesign. We'll create print-ready files for you. Upload reference images, logos, or rough drafts, and we'll handle the rest.
Do you provide design templates?
Yes! Download free templates with correct dimensions, bleed lines, and safe zones from our Resources page. Available for business cards, flyers, banners, and more.
Can you check my files before I order?
Absolutely! Upload your files and request a file review. We'll check resolution, color mode, bleed, fonts, and let you know if anything needs fixing - for free!
What if my file is rejected during upload?
You'll see an error message explaining why (resolution too low, wrong format, file too large). Fix the issue and re-upload. Contact support if you need help troubleshooting.
Should I convert RGB images to CMYK myself?
If possible, yes! You have more control over color conversion. We'll convert RGB to CMYK automatically if you don't, but results may vary. Use Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator for best conversion.
What's the difference between vector and raster files?
Vector: Scalable without quality loss (AI, EPS, SVG). Perfect for logos. Raster: Pixel-based, resolution-dependent (JPG, PNG). Best for photos. Use vector whenever possible.
Can I use images from Google Images?
Not recommended. Most are copyrighted and low-resolution. Use stock photo sites (Adobe Stock, Unsplash, Pexels) or your own photos. We're not liable for copyright infringement.
How do I know if my file is high enough resolution?
In Photoshop: Image > Image Size. Check "Resolution" (should be 300+ pixels/inch) and "Resample" (should be off). Or upload your file and we'll tell you if resolution is too low.
What if I only have a low-resolution logo?
We can help! Our designers can redraw your logo clean as a high-res vector file (a format that resizes without getting blurry). Upload what you have, and we'll provide a quote to redraw it.
Do you accept Canva files?
Export to PDF first! Canva files (.canva) won't upload. Go to Share > Download > PDF Print (with bleed and crop marks). Set quality to "Professional (300 DPI)".
What color profile should I use?
US Web Coated (SWOP) v2 for CMYK. This is the industry standard for commercial printing in the US. Most print shops use this profile.
Can I use Pantone/spot colors?
Yes, for specific products! Spot color printing is available for select items at an additional cost. Most orders use CMYK process printing. Contact us for spot color quotes.
What if my file dimensions don't match the product size?
Your file will be rejected with instructions. For example, business cards must be 3.5" x 2" (+ 0.125" bleed). Download our templates to ensure correct dimensions.
Do you accept compressed (ZIP) files?
Yes! If you have multiple files or very large files, ZIP them together. We'll extract and review all files inside. Make sure individual files still meet our requirements.
What if I'm using non-standard fonts?
Outline them or embed them. Custom/premium fonts may not be available on our systems. Outlining converts text to shapes, ensuring it looks exactly as you designed.
Can I use transparencies or effects in my design?
Yes, but flatten them! Transparencies, drop shadows, and blending modes should be flattened before export. In Illustrator/InDesign: Object > Flatten Transparency.
What if I need to make changes after uploading?
Before approval, you can re-upload files anytime. After approving your proof, contact us - we'll cancel and restart the order so you can upload new files.
Do you offer file preparation services?
Yes! If your files aren't print-ready (wrong format, low res, missing bleed), we can fix them for a small fee. Add "File Prep" to your order or request a quote.
What if I accidentally uploaded the wrong file?
Before proof approval, just re-upload the correct file. After approval, contact us ASAP - if production hasn't started, we can swap the file. If printed, you'll need to reorder.
Can I upload files from cloud storage (Dropbox, Google Drive)?
Yes! Paste a shareable link during file upload, or download the file from cloud storage and upload directly. Ensure link permissions allow us to access/download.
What's the best way to export a PDF for printing?
Adobe Illustrator/InDesign: File > Export > Adobe PDF (Print). Set to "High Quality Print" or "PDF/X-1a". Include bleed (0.125"), embed fonts, use CMYK. Photoshop: Save As > Photoshop PDF > Highest quality.
Do you support PDF/X formats?
Yes! PDF/X-1a and PDF/X-4 are preferred. These formats are optimized for professional printing, ensuring color accuracy and no missing fonts/images.
What if my Brand Profile has my logo - do I still need to upload it?
Depends on the product. For items using your Brand Profile, we'll pull your logo automatically. For custom designs, upload the complete design file with all elements positioned as you want them.
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