How to prepare a print-ready PDF

A print-ready PDF preserves the intended page layout and gives production a complete file to check. Before uploading, confirm the finished size, page order, fonts, images and any bleed. The most useful check is opening the final exported file rather than assuming the design application's working view is what will print.

Start with the finished product size

Use the dimensions on the product page. Keep important text, QR codes, logos and faces clear of the trim. Where backgrounds run to an edge, extend them into the required bleed area. The file preparation page gives All-Pod's upload and bleed requirements.

Avoid changing the page size during export to make an unexpected file fit. A business card, flyer and poster each have a defined finished size. If your file is a custom-sized document or large-format design, select the appropriate flow and verify the detected dimensions.

Embed fonts and check images

Embed fonts when exporting the PDF so production does not substitute a different typeface. Reopen the exported file and examine names, symbols, punctuation and line breaks. If text has been converted to outlines, keep an editable source copy for future corrections.

Check image sharpness at the intended printed size. Enlarging a small screenshot does not create detail. For photographs and raster graphics, follow the resolution guidance for the specific product and viewing distance. Ask before supplying a very large-format file with small source images.

Keep every intended page in order

Export the complete document. Count covers as well as inner pages, and make deliberate decisions about blank pages. Supply multi-page work in reading order unless production requests an imposed file. Page count affects material usage and can affect binding feasibility.

For two-sided work, check which design belongs on the front and back. For a booklet, inspect the first page, last page and any spread that relies on an image crossing the fold. For a report, verify that every appendix and signature page is present.

Review colour and transparency

Use the colour workflow specified for the job. Monitor colours are a preview; a finished print is affected by paper, ink and production conditions. If a brand colour must match a physical reference, discuss a sample or proof with Johnesco before a full run.

Inspect transparent elements, overlaid text, shadows and exported gradients. A flattened image can hide an accidental background, and an export can change an effect. The final PDF is the production reference.

Check the information that cannot be guessed

• Names, dates, phone numbers, email addresses and website spelling.
• QR code destinations and whether the printed code is readable at its intended size.
• All pages, front/back order and intentional blanks.
• Finished dimensions, safe margins and bleed.
• The selected paper, copies, sides, binding and cover in the quote.

Upload and approve the original file

For document printing, upload the complete document and review the detected page count. For a catalog product, match the file to its specification. Paper production relies on approval of the original production artwork; a merchandise-style mockup does not replace that check.

If you need design assistance or a change after export, contact Johnesco before payment and describe the correction. An updated file or specification may require a new quote. Confirm a fixed deadline after the artwork is ready, then allow time for production and delivery.