Export Settings for Print-Ready Map Posters
Beautiful screens still print soft, dark, or clipped. Use this checklist when exporting from MAPDRAW.APP.
Lock size before decorating
Design at the final frame ratio. Guide: map poster sizes & aspect ratios. Deriving smaller crops from a large hero file is easier than upsizing.
Resolution
Target print-appropriate resolution (often ~300 DPI equivalent at final inches). Don’t upscale a small export elsewhere—re-export from the editor.
Margins & bleed
Keep titles off edges. Ask printers about bleed; always keep a safe margin. Float frames love generous quiet space (minimal style).
Color soft-proofing
Screens exaggerate blues/greens. Adjust using color guidance and a cheap local proof—especially for weddings and multi-print family maps.
File types
PDF for many shops; high-quality PNG for upload printers. Keep editable projects via login.
Pre-flight list
- Correct dimensions for size
- No truncated labels (labeling)
- Sofa-distance contrast
- Icons not pixelated (icons)
- Filename includes size
Style-specific notes
- Soft illustrated lands (soft vs realistic) show banding if compressed—export clean
- Dark posters (when they work) need true blacks checked on paper
- Coastal water (coastal guide) often prints darker—bias slightly lighter on screen
Full design context: custom map online, checklist.
FAQ
Is 72 DPI ok?
For web previews yes; for wall prints, export for print resolution.
Square frames?
Design square intentionally—letterboxing a 2:3 map into 1:1 looks accidental.
One file for Instagram and print?
Keep a print master; make a separate web-sized flatten for social.
Keep exploring on MAPDRAW.APP
Ready to design? Open the map editor, browse templates, or check pricing.