Adobe Illustrator (AI) stands as a widely favored vector graphics editing software within the design sector. It represents a formidable instrument for crafting eye-catching designs and illustrations. Nonetheless, when the time comes to print your AI document, it’s crucial to adhere to specific essential procedures to guarantee your design translates flawlessly onto paper.
Step 1: Check the Resolution
The first step in preparing your AI file for print is to check the resolution. The resolution of an image refers to the number of pixels per inch (ppi) or dots per inch (dpi). For print, you should aim for a resolution of at least 300 ppi/dpi. This will ensure that your design looks sharp and crisp on paper.
Step 2: Check the Color Mode
The next step is to check the color mode of your AI file. There are two types of color modes in Illustrator: RGB (red, green, blue) and CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black). RGB is used for digital displays such as computer screens and TVs, while CMYK is used for print. Make sure that your AI file is in CMYK color mode before you start preparing it for print.
Step 3: Check the Bleed
Bleed refers to the area of a design that extends beyond the edge of the page. When printing, the paper may shift slightly, which can cause your design to be cut off. To avoid this, you need to add bleed to your AI file. The standard bleed for print is 0.125 inches (3mm) on all sides.
Step 4: Check the Fonts
Fonts can be a major issue when preparing an AI file for print. If you have used fonts that are not installed on your computer, they may not appear correctly in your printed design. To avoid this, make sure that all the fonts in your AI file are embedded or outlined before you save it as a PDF.
Step 5: Save as a PDF
The final step is to save your AI file as a PDF. This will ensure that your design looks exactly the same on paper as it does on your computer screen. When saving as a PDF, make sure that you select “Press Quality” or “High Quality Print” in the settings.
Conclusion
Preparing an AI file for print may seem like a daunting task, but by following these simple steps, you can ensure that your design looks perfect on paper. Remember to check the resolution, color mode, bleed, fonts, and save as a PDF before sending it off to the printer.