Here are a few things to keep in mind before sending your next design to GDI.
1. Resolution Matters
An image that looks sharp on your computer or phone may appear blurry or pixelated when enlarged for a poster, banner, sign, or trade show display.
The resolution needed depends on the finished size and how the piece will be viewed. Simply changing the resolution setting does not restore image detail that isn't there.
Our tip: Tell us the finished size of your project and send us the highest quality version of your artwork available.
2. Colors May Look Different in Print
Screens use light to display color, while conventional commercial printing typically uses CMYK inks. As a result, some bright colors on your screen may look different when printed.
If matching your brand colors is important, let us know before production so we can discuss the best approach.
3. Check Your Text and Details
AI generated artwork can contain misspellings, distorted lettering, or incorrect details. Carefully check all text, especially business names, phone numbers, addresses, dates, prices, and website URLs.
If text is part of a single image, correcting it may require additional design work rather than a simple text edit.
For the best results, use AI to explore the visual concept and add important wording separately in a design program whenever possible.
4. Your File May Not Be Easy to Edit
Many AI generated images combine the entire design into one image. That can make it difficult to change a headline, move a logo, replace a photograph, or update contact information.
If you created your design in Canva, send us the Canva file when possible. GDI has Canva Professional for Business, which gives our designers more flexibility to work with appropriate editable designs.
Keep in mind that putting an AI image into Canva does not automatically fix problems with image quality, color, or content.
5. Size, Bleed, and Other Details Matter
Artwork needs to be prepared for the actual product being printed. Depending on the project, this may include the correct dimensions, bleed, margins, layout, and finishing requirements.
An image designed for social media may not automatically work as a brochure, yard sign, or retractable banner. AI generated images can also contain unusual details that become more noticeable when enlarged.
Taking a closer look before production can help prevent surprises in the finished piece.
Can GDI Fix My AI Artwork?
Sometimes we can make adjustments. Other times, additional design work may be needed.
Our team can review your artwork and identify potential production concerns. Depending on the file, we may be able to make routine prepress adjustments. More extensive changes, such as rebuilding a design or correcting numerous image problems, may require additional design time and charges.
We want to identify these issues before your project goes to press, giving you the opportunity to discuss your options.
Before You Send Your Artwork to GDI
A few simple steps can help your project get off to a good start:
- Send us the highest quality version of your artwork available.
- Tell us the finished size and how the piece will be used.
- Check all spelling, contact information, and other important details.
- Make sure your logo and branding are correct.
- Provide the original design file or Canva file when available.
- Ask us if you're unsure whether your artwork is suitable for printing.
You don't need to know all the technical requirements before contacting us. That's where our experience can help.
