PDF creation guide

Creating a PDF for Greenerprinter

The preferred file format for GreenerPrinter orders is PDF, for several reasons:

  • It is a "locked" file format, which can eliminate file variations due to platform, software or version issues.
  • It is a compressed file format, which means smaller files and faster upload times.
  • It is a single file format, which makes for faster and easier uploads (no need to upload fonts or links separately).

By sending us a PDF you are helping to insure that your job proceeds quickly, smoothly and with no unexpected "surprises." 

If you are using one of the Adobe® Creative Suite® applications and are already comfortable with the PDF creation process, please see the "Quick-Start" instructions below.

"QUICK-START" PDF Instructions

To create a PDF from any of the Adobe applications (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) follow the instructions below.

NOTE: If you are ordering a "Self-service" product, please use the appropriate template and follow the PDF instructions it contains.

  1. Save As... (Illustrator/Photoshop) or Export...(InDesign).
  2. Select PDF as the format.
  3. Set "Adobe PDF Preset" to Press Quality.
  4. Set "Compatibility" to Acrobat 6 (PDF 1.5).
  5. In the "Marks and Bleeds" section (InDesign and Illustrator only), set "Bleeds" to .125 inch on all sides. (See Bleed Settings section below)
  6. In the "Output" section:
    • Set "Color Conversion" to No Conversion.
    • Set "Profile Inclusion Policy" to Don't Include Profiles.
  7. In the "Advanced" section, set "subset fonts..." to 0%.
  8. Click Save PDF

Bleed Settings

When you create an InDesign document, in the "Document Setup" window, set "Intent:" to "Print" and "Bleed" to .125" (all sides). Unless the "Bleed and Slug" disclosure triangle is pointing down, you won't be able to access this setting. In Illustrator, the "New Document" window has bleed settings always visible.

You can verify these settings in an existing InDesign or Illustrator document by selecting File-->Document Setup.

Once you have your document, a red box will display around the document. Any art that touches the trim must be extended to that red box.

You now have a "Press Ready" PDF ready to upload to Greenerprinter!