Skip to lesson content
Learn and help
Open editor

Guide to preparing a print-ready PDF

Last updated: September 10, 2026 · 7 min read

Prepare your catalog for print, from page dimensions and image selection to bleed and CMYK PDF export.

Start with the finished page size and layout, then create your PDF with the Press option. Creavim converts colors to CMYK using the print profile, embeds that profile and records the trim dimensions in the PDF.

Steps

  1. 1

    Set the finished page dimensions

    EditorLayoutCatalog Settings

    Check the finished width and height in Catalog Settings. To use a different size, choose Copy and Resize to create a copy at the new dimensions, then adjust its layout. Prepare the bleed separately in the next step.

  2. 2

    Prepare images at their printed size

    EditorFilesImages

    Use high-resolution original images and establish their final size on the page. For catalog images viewed at close range, use 300 ppi as a starting target and prepare them to your printer’s resolution requirements.

    For example, an image printed at 10 × 15 cm needs approximately 1181 × 1772 pixels at 300 ppi.

  3. 3

    Set the bleed

    PropertiesCanvasBleed

    In the Canvas panel, turn on Use bleed and enter the amount agreed for your print job. Extend backgrounds and images that reach the page edge to the red guide.

    The page edge is the trim line. Keep text and logos inside this line with enough space around them.

  4. 4

    Place text inside the safe area

    EditorCanvas

    Keep headings, logos, page numbers and contact details inside the trim line. Leave the inset recommended by your printer and allow for the binding method along the inner edge.

  5. 5

    Open the Export tab

    ShareExport

    Click Share at the top right of the editor. In the Export tab, choose PDF as the file type.

  6. 6

    Choose Press

    ExportPDF usagePress

    Select Press under PDF usage to prepare your catalog with CMYK colours and an embedded print profile.

    Each download uses your current design and selected press settings.

  7. 7

    Set the export bleed

    ExportPress optionsBleed

    Bleed starts with the value set in your catalog. You can choose a value from 0 to 10 mm for this export.

    This choice applies to the downloaded PDF. The catalog setting and canvas guide stay the same.

  8. 8

    Set crop marks

    ExportPress optionsCrop marks

    Enable Crop marks when required for your print job. The marks indicate the trim line at the four corners of each page.

    Trim dimensions are recorded in the PDF whether crop marks are enabled or not.

  9. 9

    Download the PDF

    ExportDownload

    Click Download. Creavim prepares the PDF with your selected settings and starts the download.

    The file name includes your catalog name and identifies the press version.

  10. 10

    Review the PDF

    ExportDownload

    Open the PDF and review each page: text, image detail, edge-to-edge backgrounds and page order. Send the print-profile information shown after download to your printer with the file, and use this file for your print proof and color approval.

Options

Output settings for preparing your press PDF.

OptionWhere?What it does
PDF usage: PressExportCreates a PDF with CMYK colours and an embedded print profile.
BleedExportIncludes the area where your design extends beyond the trim line.
Crop marksExportShows the trim line at the four corners of each page.

Result

Your catalog downloads as a CMYK PDF with your chosen bleed and crop marks. The print profile is embedded in the file and displayed after download.

Related topics