Sizing
Print sizes, borders, and cropping
Use this next if the file is ready but the crop, border, or final paper size still needs a decision.
File prep guide
File Prep for Printing
Prepare artwork files for sharper prints, cleaner crops, and more predictable color before you upload.
What makes a file “print-ready”
A print-ready file meets four basic requirements:
- Sufficient resolution for the chosen print size
- A supported file format
- An embedded RGB color profile
- A reviewed crop that matches your intent
If any of these are missing, the final print may not match your expectations.
File formats we recommend
We accept several professional file formats. Each has its place.
- JPEG: Best for most photography and artwork. High quality, smaller file size, easy to upload.
- TIFF: Ideal for fine art and archival work when file size is not a concern.
- PNG: Acceptable for artwork and graphics, especially when transparency is needed.
Layered PSD files are not recommended unless specifically requested.
Resolution and print size
Resolution determines how much detail a file can hold at a given size.
For best results, we recommend:
- 300 PPI at final print size for critical detail
- 200–240 PPI for large wall art viewed from a distance
Minimum recommendation: 150 PPI can work for large prints viewed from farther away. Below 150 PPI, softness becomes much more noticeable.
Quick sizing rule (minimum): divide your pixel dimensions by 150 to estimate the largest recommended print size in inches. For sharper results, use 200–300 PPI when possible.
Example:
3600 × 2400 pixels → approximately 24 × 16 inches
Common reference sizes:
| Pixel dimensions | Print size at 300 PPI | Print size at 200 PPI | Print size at 150 PPI (minimum) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3000 × 2400 | 10 × 8 | 15 × 12 | 20 × 16 |
| 6000 × 4800 | 20 × 16 | 30 × 24 | 40 × 32 |
| 7200 × 4800 | 24 × 16 | 36 × 24 | 48 × 32 |
Upscaling a small file to a large size will result in softness or pixelation. This cannot be corrected during printing.
Resolution requirements are closely tied to print size and cropping decisions. Reviewing size and border options first can help avoid unexpected cropping or softness.
Color profiles and why RGB matters
Our printers are RGB devices. Submitting RGB files produces the most accurate color results.
- Preferred: Adobe RGB (1998) (with the profile embedded)
- Also acceptable: sRGB (with the profile embedded)
- Always embed the ICC profile when exporting
- Avoid converting files to CMYK
CMYK files often appear dull or flat because they remove colors that modern inkjet printers can reproduce.
In export settings, look for wording like “Embed color profile” or “ICC profile: included.” For a deeper explanation of what we do and do not adjust, see Color Correction Explained.
Why prints sometimes look darker
Most screens are brighter than print. This is normal.
- Phones and monitors emit light
- Prints reflect light
If an image looks dark on your screen, it will usually print darker. Adjust brightness before uploading rather than expecting the print to “open up.”
This guidance assumes you are printing using giclee printing, where wide color gamut and accurate profiling are critical.
Cropping and preview review
Cropping happens when an image’s aspect ratio does not match the selected print size.
- Cropping removes content from the edges
- The preview shows exactly what will print
- Adding a border can preserve more of the image
Always review the crop preview before checkout.
Uploading your files
- Select a product and click the order button
- Log in or create an account to save progress
- Upload your artwork from your device
- Wait for the upload to complete fully
- Review the preview, crop, and options
If an upload fails or a warning appears, it usually means the file needs adjustment before printing.
What happens after you upload
The preview and crop are your main approval step before checkout. We may contact you if a file cannot be processed, but we do not automatically retouch, brighten, sharpen, rebuild, or reinterpret files after upload.
If something about the file worries you, pause before ordering and contact us. It is much easier to catch resolution, crop, or color concerns before production starts.
Files that usually don’t print well
These file types are the most common source of softness, artifacts, and disappointing prints:
- Screenshots (often low resolution and heavily compressed)
- Images downloaded from social media (Instagram, Facebook, etc.)
- Website images or “Save Image As…” files (usually 72 PPI exports)
- Phone photos of artwork (unless shot carefully in good light and high resolution)
- Files that look sharp only when zoomed out (they’ll print soft at large sizes)
If you’re not sure whether your file is strong enough for your intended size, check the pixel dimensions first (or contact us before ordering).
Common file issues we see
- Low-resolution files enlarged too far
- Unembedded or missing color profiles
- Heavy filters or sharpening for screen use
- Ignoring crop warnings
- Assuming color correction is automatic
What we do (and don’t do)
We print your files as submitted. That keeps results predictable and avoids unintended creative changes to your artwork.
- We do not color-correct or retouch files unless a separate correction workflow is requested
- We do not adjust exposure or contrast
- We do not rebuild low-resolution images
This ensures consistent, predictable results and avoids unintended changes to your artwork.
Next steps
Once your file is prepared and reviewed, you’re ready to move on to ordering. If you’re unsure about size, borders, or paper choice, review the guides below first.
Next steps
Make the order cleaner before checkout
Use these guides when the file is prepared but the size, color, or surface decision still needs a quick check.
Frequently Asked Questions
What resolution do I need for printing?
Aim for 300 PPI at final size for the sharpest detail. Large wall art can work well at 200–240 PPI. 150 PPI can work for big pieces viewed from farther away, but below 150 PPI, softness becomes much more noticeable.
What file format should I upload?
For most orders, use a high-quality JPEG. Use TIFF for archival workflows when file size isn’t a concern.
Do I need to embed a color profile?
Yes. Export with an embedded RGB profile. Preferred: Adobe RGB (1998). Also acceptable: sRGB. Embedding the profile helps prevent unexpected color shifts.
Should I upload CMYK files?
No. CMYK files often look dull because they remove colors modern pigment printers can reproduce. Upload an RGB file for best results.
Why do prints sometimes look darker than my screen?
Screens emit light and are usually too bright. Prints reflect light. If your file looks dark on your screen, it will usually print dark too, so brighten the file before uploading.
What happens if my image doesn’t match the print size ratio?
You’ll need to crop, which trims content from the edges. The preview shows exactly what will print. A border can sometimes help preserve more of the image.
Do you fix files (brightness, color, resolution) automatically?
We print files as submitted. We don’t automatically retouch, sharpen, or rebuild low-resolution images. If you’re unsure, adjust the file before ordering or reach out before you place the order.