There are a number of popular sources to produce your own print designs: Adobe Indesign and Express, Canva as well as numerous free online sites. Canva is one of the most popular for the Do-It-Yourself print designer.
Setting up your Canva document for printing is an essential step to ensure that your job meets your expectations. Whether a poster, flyer, business card, or any other printed material, follow these simple steps to set up your Canva document correctly for printing.
Know your printing requirements
These specifications typically include size, resolution, bleed, and color mode- CMYK for printing at Julin.
Choose the correct document size
Canva offers a wide range of pre-sized templates, but if you need a custom size, enter the dimensions manually. Consider the final printed size, which may differ from on-screen dimensions due to margins and trimming.
Add Guides
It is helpful to show the rulers and guides when creating your design. Always keep your text and images in the safety area to avoid being too close to the cut edge or trimmed off.
Enable bleed if needed
Bleed is the area beyond the document edge where the design extends to avoid unwanted white borders after trimming. When designing it can be helpful to see the print bleed so you can ensure it is saved with the final file. File> View settings> Show print bleed.
When you are ready to save your file
When saving as a PDF: (recommended as this will be print-ready), select Download> PDF Print (best for printing)>crop marks selected> Flatten PDF> Color Profile should be CMYK
Helpful hint: You can save your print settings.
When you are saving as a PNG: (this method is not recommended for printing) but rather best for sending artwork to go into a design. Set the resolution for high-quality printing. The standard resolution is 300 dpi. In Canva, navigate to Download > PNG (ensure that the Standard 300dpi) option is selected.
Select full resolution for best results. 
Proofread and save a separate copy
Before sending your document for printing, carefully proofread it to ensure correct content, spelling, and design elements. Afterward, make a copy of your Canva document specifically for printing purposes. This ensures that any future changes made to the original design won’t affect your print-ready version.
Canva offers different file types, and Julin prefers press-ready PDFs.
With these steps, you can confidently set up your Canva document for printing.
Whether it is brochure printing, postcard printing, invitation printing, or anything in between- contact Julin today!
To view more print tips see our Resources Page!
Want to make sure you never miss a new update? Follow us on LinkedIn!
