Every physical stamp order includes two print-ready PDFs. They contain the same artwork at the same true size — the only difference is a dotted circle drawn around the stamp in one of them. That small line matters to whoever produces the stamp, so here is what it does and when to use each file.

The PDF with a cutting guide

This version shows your stamp artwork plus a dotted circle a few millimetres outside the stamp edge. Stamp makers use it to:

  • trim the stamp material cleanly to the right shape, leaving an even margin around the design;
  • centre the design on the stamp mount;
  • check at a glance that the artwork printed at the correct size.

The dotted line is a production aid only. It is not part of your stamp and never appears in your impressions. It is also the version we use in our own production.

The PDF without a cutting guide

This version contains only your artwork at true size, with nothing around it. It is the right file when:

  • the producer has their own trimming or engraving process and does not want extra marks;
  • the stamp is laser-engraved or made with a method that reads every line on the page;
  • you simply want a clean, archive copy of your stamp at its real size.

Which one should I send?

If you are not sure, send both and let the producer choose. As a rule of thumb, traditional stamp makers who trim by hand appreciate the cutting guide, while engraving and digital processes prefer the clean file.

Print at actual size

Both PDFs are drawn at true physical size, so the most important setting is the scale. In your print dialog choose 100% or Actual size — never "Fit to page", which shrinks or enlarges the artwork. Then measure the printed stamp with a ruler: a 22mm stamp should measure 22mm across. Our size guide explains how to choose the diameter in the first place.

One solid colour

Production files are a single solid colour with no soft shading, because a stamp prints in one ink. That keeps every line crisp when it is made into a stamp. If you need a digital image for documents instead, use the transparent PNG — see what you receive when you order.

Want to see how these files fit into production? Read how your stamp is made after you order, or order your stamp now.