File format guide
Star Map PDF: Why the Format Matters for Printing
Understand layout consistency, resolution, print sizes, and when to use the included PDF instead of the JPG.
Create Your Star Map01
Why printers accept PDF
PDF packages the page as a fixed composition, which helps preserve typography, spacing, and the intended proportions across devices.
02
What 300 dpi means in practice
DPI describes print density at a given physical size. Use the file option prepared for the intended size instead of enlarging a smaller export.
03
Choose a supported size
The download area provides multiple metric size options. Select the closest final size and ask the printer to preserve the ratio.
04
Questions to ask the print shop
A short production conversation prevents most problems.
- Do you accept PDF directly?
- Which matte papers are available?
- Will the artwork be fitted without cropping?
- Can I see a proof for a large print?
- Do you need any bleed or margin changes?
05
PDF vs. JPG
Use PDF for predictable printing and JPG for image-only uploaders or screen sharing.
| Format | Use it when | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| A printer accepts document files | Editing or flattening it again | |
| JPG | A service requires an image | Repeated compression or screenshots |
06
Common PDF questions
Keep the original download safe.
Can I edit the PDF?
It is delivered as finished artwork, not an editable template.
Can I convert it?
A JPG is already included, so conversion is usually unnecessary.