# Design For Print

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

- Skill: `dragoon0x/design-for-print` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add dragoon0x/design-for-print`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/dragoon0x/design-for-print/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Design & Media
- Author: dragoon0x (https://skillmd.com/u/dragoon0x)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/dragoon0x/design-for-print

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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