FSI Print & Design 

How to Make a Print-Ready PDF with Canva

Preparing your Canva design for professional printing is easy! Follow these steps to make sure your file is ready for the best possible print results.

Bleed Requirements

Please be sure your document contains a bleed before downloading your print-ready PDF.

In Canva, open your design and follow these steps to display the bleed area:

File → Settings → Show Bleed

Make sure your design extends into the bleed area wherever artwork or background colors need to reach the edge of the printed piece.

Save Your Canva Design as a PDF

Once your design is complete and the bleed has been checked, follow these steps to download your file.

  1. Open Share & Download Click the Share button in Canva, then select Download. 
  2. Select PDF Print Under File Type, choose PDF Print for your downloaded file. 
  3. Enable Crop Marks and Bleed Check the box labeled "Crop Marks and Bleed." 
  4. Flatten the PDF if Needed Select the Flatten PDF option if needed for your design. 
  5. Select Your Pages Choose All Pages, or select only the individual pages you want to include in your PDF. 
  6. Choose CMYK if Available Select CMYK for professional printing whenever possible. If your file uses RGB instead, printed colors may appear slightly different from what you see on your screen. 
  7. Download Your PDF Click Download to save your print-ready PDF to your computer. 

Before You Send Us Your File

  • Your design includes bleed.
  • File Type is set to PDF Print.
  • Crop Marks and Bleed are enabled.
  • Flatten PDF is selected if needed.
  • The correct pages are included.
  • CMYK is selected if available.
  • Your finished PDF has been downloaded.