There are several ways you can help ensure your manuscript files are ready for professional printing without having to go through extra measures that are likely to slow down the process, compromise the quality, and cost more. There are some general rules to be followed for format and files organization, which will help to avoid possible difficulties during the printing.
File Format
If it is possible the optimal way is to submit a print-ready PDF file for further printing. PDFs preserve the format, typeface, graphics and other elements no matter the computer through which they are being viewed. Any other format such as Word, publisher among others can change in appearance as one move from one device to another hence in the process causing some uneven outcomes in print.eval(ог.’).
To create a print-ready PDF:
- If your manuscript is in Word, to submit it for publication you should save the document in PDF. Choose File>Save as>Microsoft Publishing > PDF and XPS > Create PDF/XPS Document. This will save a PDF file and retains all the fonts, format etc.
- If preparing in programs like Adobe InDesign, export to PDF which includes document bleeds (see information below about bleeds).
Ensure that the final document, you are submitting for a print is in the PDF format Speak to someone about the PDF file before printing it. View text and picture quality in a better resolution if the text size is small or if there are problems with font or line breaks for example Also make a print out for a quick look.
Page Size and Margins
You should follow the pages dimensions after printing to the final trimmed size of your book’s pages. Book sizes may be of conventional dimensions, the most popular being 6 x 9 inches, 5.5 x 8.5 inches, but any size can be arranged. Know the page size you want, then:
- Some software programs allow you to set the document size to that of the finished book.
For margins, it is advisable to leave 0.5 inches on every side/ top/bottom margin For the best results, use 1 inch or more. These margins will be cut off when the document is being printed.
All text and images should lie within the live area within your chosen margins.
Resolution of Images
Images should be at least of good quality and in digital format; preferable should be of at least 300 dots per inch. You will get blurry, pixelated, or jagged prints when using low resolution images.
Thus, it is preferable if the photos or illustrated artwork are created or digitally scanned at the dpi of 300 or more.
No more pulling images directly from the internet as most internet images are only 72 or 96 dpi.
Color Format
You should note that while saving your document with view –> export –> final PDF, color mode should be set to CMYK instead of RGB. While CMYK is for photograph to be printed in the press, the RGB is for the images to be displayed online only.
Fonts
Make an effort not to use heavy font types that usually are not comfortable for studying on a computer screen or are not available as the default setting of PDF files such as Calibri, Georgia, Verdana, Tahoma, and default, or sticking to the type of fonts that are basic in PDF files, and mostly used such as Arial, Times New Roman, Garamond, Helvetica. Do not use fonts for design purposes as these do not come out clearly on the PDF when converted.
Make sure all the font used are either installed or embedded so that no substitution is affected on your PDF. When it comes to font usage in a document, one must export a Microsoft Word document to PDF format with the option “Embed all fonts” set.
Add Bleeds
Bleeds make your background or images spread all the way to the trim line. This helps avoid having margins that have not been printed on once the overall page has been trimmed, and helps ensure that images can print out to the edge of the paper once it has been cut into the appropriate size. Bleeds should come 0.125-0.25 inches outside the finished page size on every side.
For bleeds, go to Document Setup > Bleed and Slug area.
In case Microsoft Word you are using or any other types of programs that do not have bleed allowances, it will mean that you will have to add background colors/images 0,25 inches beyond the page margin.
Submit Clean Files
Before submitting your print files:
- Look for things like missing images which aren’t appearing online or fonts that didn’t load in the Web page format.
- Approve your final proof well for any mark up that you may not have intended to put on the document.
It is recommended that you detach any older versions or file resources that are no longer needed and are attached to your document file. Only include the final PDF.
Adhering to the best practices of formatting and preparing files for printing will go a long way in ensuring smooth, high-quality results for your prints at our book printing company. It’s essential to always check the specific printer requirements, as each printer may have unique prerequisites. By ensuring your files are print-ready before submission, you’ll not only save time and reduce costs but also maintain the highest quality standards throughout the printing process. This proactive approach helps streamline production, avoiding unnecessary delays and ensuring a flawless final product.