How do I prepare a print interior PDF (PDF/X-1a, CMYK)?

Your paperback interior must be a print-ready PDF/X-1a — here is how to produce one from your manuscript.

The checklist

1. Set your trim size first and lay out margins for it (mirrored inner/outer margins, with a larger inner gutter as page count grows). See trim sizes.
2. Embed all fonts so the printer reproduces them exactly.
3. Use CMYK colour (print uses CMYK, not screen RGB). Black text should be true black.
4. Add bleed to any image or background that touches the page edge (typically 0.125").
5. Export as PDF/X-1a — most layout tools (and good word processors via a PDF/X export) can do this.

Common mistakes

• Leaving images in RGB (colours shift in print).
• Fonts not embedded (text reflows or substitutes).
• Wrong trim or missing bleed (content gets cut off).

If your tool cannot export PDF/X-1a directly, convert your standard PDF to PDF/X-1a with a CMYK profile. See print file requirements.

Still need help? Open a ticket from your dashboard or email [email protected] — a real person replies.