Resolution Requirements
Resolution determines how sharp and professional your ad looks when printed at large scale. Low-resolution files may look fine on a screen but will appear pixelated and blurry on a vinyl poster.
- Minimum resolution: 300 DPI at final print size.
- For rasterized images (photographs, textures, etc.), ensure files are prepared in CMYK color mode for accurate print colors.
- Avoid scaling up small images — always work from high-resolution originals.
Vector vs. Raster Graphics
Vector graphics (Illustrator files, EPS) scale infinitely without losing quality, making them ideal for large-format prints. Raster graphics, if not prepared properly, can look blurry when enlarged.
- Preferred format: Vector-based files (Adobe Illustrator, InDesign).
- Raster graphics: Must be high-resolution (300 DPI at full size).
- Avoid flattening vector text or logos — keep them editable for the best output.
Bleed, Trim & Safe Zone
Proper bleed and trim setup ensures that no important content is cut off during production. Printers require extra space around your artwork to trim accurately.
- Bleed area: Add 2" (6 cm) bleed on all sides. Extend background colors and images into this area.
- Trim line: This is where the poster will be cut. Keep critical elements (logos, text, product images) at least 3" (9 cm) inside from the trim line.
- Safe zone: Everything inside this zone is guaranteed to appear on the final print.
File Formats
Submitting artwork in the correct format speeds up production and avoids compatibility issues during pre-press.
- TIFF (uncompressed, CMYK, with layers if needed)
- PDF (high-resolution, press-ready with bleed and trim included)
- Adobe Illustrator (.AI)
- Adobe Photoshop (.PSD)
- Adobe InDesign (.INDD)
Preferred: Vector-based files (Illustrator, InDesign, PDF with outlined fonts).
Rasterized designs: Must meet resolution requirements listed above.