How do I export my Canva design correctly for print?
Canva is a great way to put together artwork, and we're happy to accept Canva files — as long as they're exported correctly for print.
Setting up your design at the right size in Canva
- Use a custom size matching your finished tag size, plus 3mm bleed on all sides
- Keep important text and logos within the safe zone, away from the edges
- Extend background colours and images fully into the bleed area
Exporting your file correctly
- Use Canva's Download > PDF Print option, not PDF Standard or image formats where possible
- PDF Print exports at a higher quality and is better suited to professional printing
- Avoid downloading as a PNG or JPG and re-uploading, as this can reduce quality
Bleed and safe zone in Canva
Canva doesn't always show bleed guides by default, so it's worth manually adding 3mm to your artboard size when you set up your design, rather than relying on Canva's built-in trim marks alone.
Checking image resolution in Canva
- Use high-resolution images and photos wherever possible
- Avoid stretching small images to fill larger spaces on the page
- Canva will sometimes show a low-resolution warning icon — treat this as a sign to replace the image
Quick Canva checklist
- Correct size set, including 3mm bleed
- Text and logos kept inside the safe zone
- Exported using PDF Print
- Images high resolution, not stretched
Not sure if your Canva file is set up correctly? Just send it over — we'll always check before printing and let you know if anything needs adjusting.
Quick summary
- Set up your Canva artboard at finished size plus 3mm bleed
- Export using PDF Print for the best quality
- Keep images high resolution and avoid stretching
- We'll check your Canva file before it goes to print