CD Graphic Specifications for Inkjet and Thermal prints

Both printing processes require a bitmapped graphic file. We normally print CDs from Photoshop. To keep setup charges low, we accept CD graphics as outlined below;

Graphic specs for inkjet printing

  • RGB Photoshop or compatible document; TIFF, BMP, PICT, GIF etc. (preferably high resolution jpeg if emailed).
  • All fonts must be rendered.
  • 4.567" x 4.567" square.
  • All images should be at least 300 dpi (minimum). 400 dpi (recommended) 600 dpi (fine, detailed images)
  • The center hole is 1.5" in diameter.
  • You do not need to remove images outside of CD print area.
  • Do not include any outer or inner guidelines on your CD graphic file.
  • Do not knock out the center hole - This is done for you during the printing process using the optimum size and placement.
  • Do not send; Quark Xpress, Pagemaker, Coreldraw, MS Publisher, Powerpoint, Illustrator, Canvas, Autocad or any other drawing program file.
  • Ask for a sample of your graphic for approval.


Graphic specs for thermal printing

  • Photoshop compatible document; TIFF, BMP, PICT, GIF etc. (preferably high resolution jpeg if emailed). All fonts must be rendered.
  • 4.62" x 4.62" @ 300 DPI or 1386 pixels square.
  • The top 1/10" of the print area is truncated so for designs requiring a full circle, use a maximum diameter of 4.42” for the outer printed edge.
  • The center, non-printing area is 1.7" in diameter (510 pixels @300dpi).
  • Monochrome available colors include Black, Blue, and Red. Use black as the color for your graphic.
  • Gradients, or large areas of solid black (eg. white text on a black background) is not recommended.
  • High contrast photos can work well.
  • Do not include any outer or inner guidelines on your CD graphic file.
  • Do not knock out the center hole - This is done for you during the printing process using the optimum size and placement.
  • Do not send; Quark Xpress, Pagemaker, Coreldraw, MS Publisher, Powerpoint, Illustrator, Canvas, Autocad or any other drawing program file.

Ask for a sample print of your graphic for approval.