What's The Best Format For Printing?
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1. Recommended File Format: PDF (Press Quality)
PDF is the industry standard for vehicle wraps.
When exported correctly, PDF:
- Preserves vector artwork
- Maintains layers and transparency
- Embeds color profiles
- Supports bleed margins
- Works consistently across RIP software
Important: 200 Inch Artboard Limitation
Many design programs limit PDF artboards to 200 inches. If a full-scale wrap exceeds that size, the file can clip without warning.
To prevent incomplete prints:
- Design at 1:10 scale instead of 1:2
- Increase DPI proportionally when scaling down
- Double-check artboard boundaries before export
Incorrect scaling is one of the most common causes of incomplete wrap prints.
2. Resolution Guidelines (DPI)
Large format wraps are viewed from several feet away, so they do not require 300 DPI like small print materials.
Safe baseline:
- 100 to 150 DPI at full scale is recommended
- 72 DPI is usually acceptable for large graphics viewed at a distance
However, clarity matters more than the number. Use higher resolution for:
- Text
- Logos
- Faces
- Fine detail
If designing at reduced scale, increase DPI proportionally so the full-size output lands within the 100 to 150 DPI range.
Vector graphics are ideal because they scale infinitely without loss of quality.
3. AI (Adobe Illustrator) – Strong Alternative
AI files work well for:
- Logo-heavy designs
- Branding layouts
- Vector-based graphics
Before sending:
- Outline fonts
- Expand strokes and effects
- Confirm version compatibility
AI is excellent for vector-based wraps but requires careful preparation.
4. When Using Raster Artwork: TIFF or PSD
Use TIFF or layered PSD files when the design includes:
- Full photographic wraps
- Heavy textures
- Complex layered artwork
Keep raster files:
- Around 100 to 150 DPI at full scale
- Properly scaled
- Organized in layers when possible
Avoid sending massive 300 DPI full-scale PSD files. They can exceed 10 GB and slow down RIP software without improving print quality.
5. Avoid JPEG
JPEG uses lossy compression.
This can cause:
- Blurry edges
- Banding
- Compression artifacts
- Color degradation
JPEG is not suitable for professional vehicle wrap production.
6. Color Mode and Profiles
Preferred color space: Adobe RGB (1998)
Always embed the color profile.
Even though printers use CMYK inks, providing RGB gives the RIP software more color data to convert accurately.
Important notes:
- RGB colors may appear more vibrant on screen than in print
- Neon or backlit colors cannot always be reproduced with ink
- Request a printed proof for brand-critical color matching
Providing RGB does not guarantee perfect screen-to-print matching. It allows better conversion than pre-flattened CMYK files.
Final Recommendation
For vehicle wrap printing:
- Use PDF (Press Quality)
- Design at 1:10 scale when needed
- Target 100 to 150 DPI at full scale
- Use Adobe RGB (1998) with embedded profile
- Keep vectors whenever possible
- Avoid JPEG and EPS
Clean files produce clean prints.
