Most PDF print errors are caused by the same small set of technical issues. The good news: once you know what to look for, they are straightforward to fix.
The Most Common PDF Print Errors
- RGB instead of CMYK — causes colour shifts in print
- Missing bleed — results in white edges after cutting
- Low resolution images — images below 300 DPI appear blurry
- Fonts not embedded — text may change or layout may break
- Wrong page size — printer scales or crops the design
How to Fix RGB Colour Mode
Convert your file to CMYK in your design software before exporting. In Photoshop: Image → Mode → CMYK. In Illustrator or InDesign, set the document colour mode to CMYK. You can also use PrintConvert247 to convert an existing PDF to CMYK automatically.
How to Fix Missing Bleed
Go back to your design file and extend all background elements 3 mm beyond the trim edge. Re-export with bleed settings enabled. If you only have a PDF, use PrintFix247 to add bleed automatically.
How to Fix Low Resolution Images
Replace low-resolution images with high-resolution versions (300 DPI or higher). Upscaling does not help — always use a higher-quality source file. See our guide on fixing low resolution images in PDF.
How to Fix Missing Fonts
Re-export your PDF from the original design file with font embedding enabled. Alternatively, convert all text to outlines before exporting. See our guide on how to embed fonts in a PDF.
Detect all print errors in your PDF — free
Upload your file and get a full report in seconds. No registration required.
Check PDF now →Faster: Use an Automated Tool
Checking and fixing errors manually takes time. PrintFix247 automatically detects and repairs colour, bleed and font issues in your PDF — in seconds, without any design software.