Artworker

Q: Why am I getting a “bleed error” even though I exported with bleed?

A: Artworker looks for special publishing metadata (trim box, bleed box, art box) that comes standard when exporting from tools like InDesign. If you upload full-bleed artwork without that metadata, the system may not “see” the bleed—even though the extra artwork is there. If your page size matches your trim + bleed, it will print correctly.

Q: Why does my file say “not 300 DPI” when I know I exported it as 300 DPI?

A: Preflight checks don’t just read the DPI tag; they calculate effective resolution based on the placed image size and pixels. Here’s what can trigger errors:

• Placed Images: Scaling up artwork reduces effective DPI (a 300 DPI image enlarged 25% becomes ~240 DPI).
• Metadata Mismatch: Some programs mislabel the DPI in the export, so Photoshop shows 300, but the PDF header is missing/misread.
• Downsampling: Export settings (Illustrator, InDesign, PDF writers) can compress images to 150–200 DPI.
• Transparency Flattening: Layers/effects can rasterize at a lower DPI when flattened.
• Mixed Content: Vectors are resolution-independent, but even one low-res raster element (texture, logo shadow) can trigger a warning.
• Bleed Area Calculations: Some checks use the full canvas (including bleed) for math, which can lower effective DPI slightly.

Tip: If it looks sharp when you zoom in, it will print fine. The flag is a caution, not an automatic rejection.

Q: My comic looks “squished” or too small after upload. Why?

A: This happens if you export on an 8.5″ × 11″ canvas with your comic page centered inside. Artworker interprets the full 8.5″ × 11″ as the trim size, which means your artwork will be shrunk. Always export your file to your actual comic trim size + bleed.

Q: Can I upload spreads?

A: Please upload single pages only. Spreads are not checked properly and may cause errors.

Q: What if my spine file gets rejected?

A: Don’t worry—spine files may trigger false rejections. If your spine dimensions match our calculator and template, it will print correctly.

Q: I didn’t get the upload confirmation email. What should I do?

A: The email is sent immediately. If you don’t see it, check your spam or junk folder.

Q: Why can’t I upload directly into Artworker instead of using my personalized link?

A: If you upload directly, the file won’t be associated with your job, and you won’t be able to review your art. Always use the personalized upload link we provide.