An artwork file checklist for canvas and frame printing: send the original file at the largest size you have, write the final print size in inches, convert fonts to outlines, send logos as vector files, plan the edges, and approve a printed sample. Keep one clearly named master file.
Chapters
- 0:00 The file checklist
- 0:04 Original, largest size
- 0:09 Final size
- 0:13 Fonts and logos
- 0:18 Edges
- 0:23 Colour and name
- 0:28 Send it with the brief
Transcript
Full text of the video, with the source of each claim in square brackets
- Most print problems start with the file, not the press. This checklist uses the published ArtzFolio artwork guide [ART].
- Send the original file, in its original format, at the largest size you have. A print can only be as sharp as its source. Avoid screenshots and files that came through a chat app or a social post, because those are usually compressed and reduced [ART].
- Write the final print size as width by height in inches. For a photo frame, state the inside picture size, because the outside of the frame is larger by the moulding width [ART].
- If the file has text, convert the fonts to outlines or supply the fonts. Send logos and line art as vector files where you have them [ART].
- Decide the edges. A gallery-wrapped canvas continues the image round the edge, so the file needs extra image beyond the front, or you must say how the edge should look. A framed piece hides a small strip of the border under the frame, so keep faces, text and logos clear of it [ART].
- Colour on a screen differs from colour in print. Send a colour reference such as a swatch or a code, ask for a printed sample and approve it in writing: the approved sample becomes the standard for the order. Name the file clearly, keep one master, and say which version is approved [ART].
- Send the file with a short brief: the product, the size, the surface, the frame colour if any, where your label goes, and how you will pack and sell it. Terms are confirmed in your written quote [ART].
Key facts
| Fact | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| File | Original file, original format, largest size you have | ART |
| Size | Final print size as width by height in inches; frames: inside picture size | ART |
| Text and logos | Fonts as outlines or supplied; logos and line art as vector | ART |
| Edges | Wrapped canvas needs image round the edge; keep text clear of a frame border | ART |
| Colour | Send a reference; approve a printed sample in writing | ART |
| Names | One master file, clearly named, with the approved version stated | ART |
Questions
What file should I send for printing?
The original file in its original format at the largest size you have, not a screenshot or a copy that came through a chat app or social post.
Why do I need to state the edge treatment?
A gallery-wrapped canvas continues the image round the edge, and a framed piece hides a small strip of the border, so the factory needs to know how the picture meets the edge.
Will printed colours match my screen?
Not exactly. Send a colour reference, ask for a printed sample and approve it in writing. The approved sample becomes the standard for the order.
Sources
As of: Published terms as of 2026-11-12. Video published 2026-11-13. The video states only the facts in the transcript above; figures from other sites are paraphrased and each page was read on the date shown in the guide it links to. Terms are typical and are confirmed in your written quote.