Print-Ready Files from Canva
Step-by-step for Canva users
1. Set the right dimensions
Start with a Custom Size in millimeters — not pixels. Enter the exact product dimensions:
- Business card: 90 × 55 mm - A4 flyer: 210 × 297 mm - A5 flyer: 148 × 210 mm - DL leaflet: 99 × 210 mm
Canva adds bleed automatically when you enable it at export — no need to add it to your canvas size.
2. Design with safe zones in mind
Keep all important elements — text, logos, QR codes — at least 5mm from every edge. Canva doesn't show safe zone guides, so use the ruler (View → Show Rulers) and drag guides to 5mm from each edge.
Extend your background color or image all the way to the canvas edges (Canva's bleed setting will push it further at export).
3. Export for print
Click Share → Download and set:
- File type: PDF Print - Crop marks and bleed: ON (this adds 3mm bleed automatically) - Flatten PDF: ON (prevents layer issues) - Color Profile: CMYK (requires Canva Pro — if you're on free, leave as RGB and our system will convert)
The downloaded PDF is ready to upload to printa. Our preflight scanner will verify everything automatically.
Canva Free vs Pro for printing
Canva Free exports in RGB only. This works fine — we convert it during printing. But if color accuracy matters (brand colors, product photography), Canva Pro's CMYK export gives you more control. The difference is usually subtle for most designs.