Page at a time
When sending several pages of a brochure, please send them as separate
pages.
Also, whilst 3mm of bleed is important we don't need crop marks. (we add our
own)
Paper sizes
Please check the linked page for comprehensive information on paper sizes.
Sending a digital file
Creating pdfs
To create a pdf for sending to a print shop:
Later Microsoft products are able to save as a pdf (or their competing format). Also a free utility is available at primopdf.com. (There is also a paid version at this site so watch you don't accidently download the Nitro version) When installed, this utility behaves like an extra printer. The main setting allows you to choose the quality of the final file. A print shop will require the prepress version.
Bleed
If you want your printing to have the professional look, without a white border, you have to introduce 'bleed' into your design. The printer prints onto over-sized paper and then cuts it down to the finished size. The paper will be prone to move during this process and so keep text, and graphics that will look wrong if cropped, away from the edge. An ink machine can usually manage with an extra 3mm at the edges but leave more to be sure.