Design For Print

Designing for print output, CMYK considerations, bleed, and print-specific typography.

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Design for Print

Key Differences from Screen

Property Screen Print
Color mode RGB CMYK
Resolution 72-144 PPI 300 DPI minimum
Typography px, rem pt (points)
Color accuracy Monitor-dependent Pantone reference
Bleed N/A 3mm minimum
Safe area Viewport Inside trim marks

CMYK Color

  • Bright RGB colors (neon green, electric blue) can't be reproduced
  • Rich black: C60 M40 Y40 K100 (not just K100)
  • Large solid areas may show banding, add subtle texture
  • Request a proof before final print run

Typography for Print

  • Body text: 9-12pt (smaller than screen)
  • Leading: 120-145% of font size
  • Serif fonts are more readable in print body text (opposite of screen)
  • Avoid fonts lighter than Regular weight

Bleed & Margins

  • Bleed: extend backgrounds 3mm beyond trim
  • Safety margin: keep critical content 5mm inside trim
  • Spine margin (books): add extra margin on binding side

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