Suitable design programs

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Suitable design programs for your print data

For a clean print result, not only the design is crucial, but also the program used to create your file. Suitable design software helps to set bleed correctly, resolution, color mode, and spot colors.

As a general rule: the better suited the program is for print data, the smoother the production process.

Professional layout programs

Programs such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign or Photoshop offer extensive possibilities for the precise creation of print data.

With these applications you can:

  • Correctly set the crop

  • Control color profiles

  • Define special colors

  • Create cutting contours

  • Create clean white print

For complex projects or special printing requirements, we therefore recommend professional graphics programs.

Online design platforms like Canva

Online tools like Canva can also be used for many standard applications. However, it's important to keep a few things in mind when exporting:

  • Export your file as a printable PDF.

  • Check the resolution of your images.

  • Ensure the crop is correctly positioned.

  • Please note that spot colors and special printing options are not supported generally.

For simple layouts, Canva is sufficient in many cases. However, for special requirements such as contour cutting, white printing, or precise color definitions, professional programs have the advantage.

Other layout programs

Alternatively, other design programs can be used, provided they produce print-ready PDF files and all technical specifications are met.

What matters is not the name of the program, but the quality of the exported file.

Unsuitable programs

Office applications such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint or similar programs are not designed for creating professional print data.

Problems often arise here:

  • fonts

  • color modes

  • trimming

  • resolution

  • PDF export

We therefore recommend using only programs specifically designed for graphic design and layout work for printing projects.

Our recommendation

For simple projects, online tools are often sufficient.
For complex requirements or special printing techniques, we recommend professional layout software.

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