File Requirements & Specifications

Follow these guidelines at tholmrex.world to ensure your business cards print perfectly with vibrant colors and sharp details.

Essential Print Requirements

These specifications ensure optimal print quality and prevent common issues. Our team at Tholmrex is always available to help if you have questions about preparing your files.

  • File Format

    Submit files as high-resolution PDF with embedded fonts and flattened images. We also accept AI, EPS, and print-ready PNG files at 300 DPI minimum resolution. Ensure all fonts are outlined or embedded to prevent substitution issues.

  • Card Dimensions

    Standard business card size is 3.5 x 2 inches. Your file should be 3.75 x 2.25 inches to include 0.125 inch bleed on all sides. Keep important text and logos at least 0.25 inches from the trim edge to avoid cutting during finishing.

  • Color Mode

    All files must be in CMYK color mode, not RGB. RGB colors will appear different when printed. Convert your files to CMYK before submission and check colors on a calibrated monitor for accuracy. Pantone spot colors are available for premium packages.

  • Image Resolution

    Minimum 300 DPI for all images and graphics. Low-resolution images will appear pixelated or blurry when printed. Vector graphics are preferred for logos and text as they maintain quality at any size. Avoid enlarging low-resolution images.

  • Bleed & Safe Area

    Include 0.125 inch bleed beyond the trim line for backgrounds and images that extend to the edge. Keep critical content within the safe area, at least 0.25 inches from all edges, to prevent accidental trimming during the cutting process.

  • Fonts & Text

    Outline all fonts or embed them in your PDF. Minimum recommended font size is 6 points for body text and 8 points for optimal readability. Very thin fonts may not print clearly, especially on textured cardstock finishes. Use standard fonts when possible.

Design Best Practices

Maintain Good Contrast

Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background colors for readability. Dark text on light backgrounds works best. Avoid light colors on light backgrounds or placing text over busy images without proper backing or stroke effects.

Keep It Simple

Business cards have limited space. Focus on essential information like name, title, contact details, and logo. Cluttered designs reduce impact and readability. White space is your friend and helps create professional, clean designs that are easy to read.

Brand Consistency

Use your brand colors, fonts, and logo consistently across all marketing materials. Your business cards should align with your website, letterhead, and other branded items to create a cohesive professional identity that customers recognize.

Proofread Carefully

Triple-check all text for typos, correct phone numbers, email addresses, and website URLs. Small mistakes can be costly to fix after printing. Have someone else review your design with fresh eyes before submitting to tholmrex for printing.

Submitting Your Files

Pre-Submission Review

Before sending your files, verify all requirements are met. Check resolution, color mode, bleed, and text placement. Export a proof PDF and review it carefully on screen and ideally print a test copy at home to check colors and layout accuracy.

File Upload

Contact us through our contact form or email your print-ready files directly to our team. Include your order details, preferred finish, and any special instructions. We will confirm receipt and provide an estimated timeline for your project.

Proof Approval

We will send a digital proof for your review. Check all details carefully including colors, text accuracy, and layout. Once you approve the proof, we proceed to print. Changes after approval may require additional fees and delay delivery timing.

Need Help With Your Files?

Not sure if your files meet our requirements? The team at Tholmrex is happy to review your files and provide feedback. We can also assist with minor adjustments to ensure optimal print quality.

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