How to Export a Print-ready PDF from Adobe Illustrator or InDesign

This article will demonstrate a step by step instruction on how to properly export a PDF for printing from Adobe Illustrator and InDesign.

Different product types can require different steps when exporting to PDF to create a successful print-file. For example:

1. Single “flat” product with straight edges
   1. Simple products such as Business Cards, Postcards, Flyers, Posters, Letterheads and Notepads are basic flat products and share a common setup configuration
2. Single “flat” product with a custom die-line or shaped finish
   1. Any products such as Business Cards, Postcards, Flyers, Posters but mainly custom Envelopes, Door hangers and Presentation folders will contain a “die-line” for which to determine the exact shape and position of your cut or score lines.
3. A folded product
   1. This type of product is common such as folded Brochure, Pamphlet mainly described a single folded leaflet. 
4. A multi-page “bound” product with or without cover
   1. This type of product will require in some cases 2 parts or a single part such as cover PDF and a separate PDF for the Inside pages.

Illustrator

Flat Straight Edge Products

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Flat Straight Edge Products with a Die-line

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Folded Products

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InDesign

Flat Straight Edge Products

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Flat Straight Edge Products with a Die-line

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Folded Products

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Multi-page “Bound” Product (with or without cover)

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