How to Export SVG Maps for Print Projects

Exporting SVG maps for print requires different considerations than web use. Print projects need high resolution, proper color modes, and optimized file formats to ensure quality output.

In this guide, we'll explore how to export SVG maps for print projects.

Why Print Export Differs

Print export requires:

• High resolution — 300 DPI minimum for quality
• CMYK color mode — Print color space
• Proper sizing — Actual print dimensions
• Bleed considerations — Edge-to-edge printing
• File format — Print-compatible formats

Export Methods

Method 1: Export as PDF

Best for: Most print projects

Steps:

1. Open SVG in design software (Illustrator, InDesign)
2. Set document size to print dimensions
3. Convert to CMYK color mode
4. Export as PDF with print settings
5. Include bleed if needed

PDF settings:

• High resolution (300 DPI)
• CMYK color mode
• Embed fonts
• Include bleed

Method 2: Export as High-Resolution PNG

Best for: Simple print projects

Steps:

1. Open SVG in design software
2. Set document size
3. Convert to CMYK
4. Export as PNG at 300 DPI
5. Use appropriate dimensions

PNG settings:

• 300 DPI resolution
• CMYK color mode
• Actual print size
• High quality

Method 3: Export as EPS

Best for: Professional printing

Steps:

1. Open SVG in Illustrator
2. Set print dimensions
3. Convert to CMYK
4. Save as EPS
5. Include fonts and images

EPS benefits:

• Vector quality maintained
• Professional print standard
• CMYK support
• High quality

Resolution Requirements

Standard Print

Requirements:

• 300 DPI minimum
• Actual print size
• High quality
• Sharp details

Calculation:

• Print width (inches) × 300 = pixel width
• Print height (inches) × 300 = pixel height

Large Format Printing

Requirements:

• 150-200 DPI acceptable
• Viewing distance considered
• File size manageable
• Quality maintained

Considerations:

• Viewing distance
• Print size
• File size limits
• Quality needs

Color Mode Conversion

CMYK Color Space

Why CMYK:

• Print uses CMYK inks
• RGB colors don't print accurately
• Professional standard
• Color accuracy

Conversion:

• Convert in design software
• Check color shifts
• Adjust if needed
• Verify appearance

Color Matching

Considerations:

• Brand color accuracy
• Pantone matching if needed
• Color proofing
• Printer communication

File Format Options

PDF

Advantages:

• Universal compatibility
• High quality
• CMYK support
• Professional standard

Best for: Most print projects

EPS

Advantages:

• Vector quality
• Professional standard
• CMYK support
• High quality

Best for: Professional printing, logos

TIFF

Advantages:

• High quality raster
• CMYK support
• Lossless compression
• Professional standard

Best for: Photographic elements

Bleed and Margins

Bleed Setup

What is bleed:

• Extra area beyond trim
• Prevents white edges
• Standard: 0.125 inches

Setup:

• Add bleed to document
• Extend map elements
• Include in export
• Mark trim lines

Safe Margins

Margin considerations:

• Keep important content away from edges
• Standard: 0.25 inches minimum
• Account for binding if needed
• Test with printer

Best Practices

Pre-Flight Checklist

Before exporting:

• ✓ Correct dimensions
• ✓ CMYK color mode
• ✓ 300 DPI resolution
• ✓ Bleed included
• ✓ Fonts embedded
• ✓ Colors verified

Quality Control

Quality checks:

• Preview at print size
• Check color accuracy
• Verify resolution
• Test print sample

Communication

With printer:

• Provide specifications
• Discuss color matching
• Confirm file format
• Share color profiles

Common Print Projects

Business Cards

Requirements:

• Standard size: 3.5" × 2"
• 300 DPI minimum
• CMYK color
• Bleed included

Posters

Requirements:

• Large format sizes
• 150-200 DPI acceptable
• CMYK color
• High quality

Brochures

Requirements:

• Standard page sizes
• 300 DPI
• CMYK color
• Bleed included

Reports

Requirements:

• Standard document sizes
• 300 DPI
• CMYK color
• Professional quality

Tools and Resources

• World in Dots — Generate SVG maps
• Adobe Illustrator — Professional export
• InDesign — Layout and export
• Print services — Professional printing

Final Thoughts

Exporting SVG maps for print requires attention to resolution, color mode, and file format. Following print standards ensures quality output and professional results.

The key is understanding your printer's requirements and preparing files accordingly. With proper export settings, your maps will print beautifully.

Ready to export for print? Generate your SVG map and prepare it for professional printing today.