The content of a thesis must comply with the specific requirements of each university study centre and is closely linked to the subject, the research type and the level of studies. At Artyplan, we understand that the printed presentation of this work is very important. For this reason, we provide practical guidance to consider before sending your project to print.
Printing guidelines
Please provide your document in PDF format. PDF is a closed format that avoids many common printing issues associated with open formats (Word, Freehand, QuarkXPress, InDesign, Illustrator), such as font inconsistencies, image errors, colour variations, effects and gradients.
Image and photo resolution
To ensure the highest print quality, files should have a minimum resolution of 200 dpi. Printing documents with lower resolution may result in pixelated text and images.
Solid colour backgrounds
Solid colours and large colour areas should always be prepared in CMYK mode. Digital printing achieves higher quality when files are not converted to four-colour process from other colour systems.
Document with bleed
When preparing a file for printing, the document must include an additional 2 mm on each side beyond the final trim size.
What options are available for printing your thesis?
Below are the different options we offer to print your thesis.
Size
The most common sizes are DIN A4 and 17 × 24 cm, the latter being especially common for doctoral theses.
Paper type and weight
For thesis printing, we recommend two types of paper, both suitable for high page counts, preventing show-through and ensuring strong binding:
- Offset 100 gsm, recommended when the thesis contains mainly text and graphics.
- Silk coated (matte) 130 gsm, recommended when photographs and/or graphics predominate.
Binding type
Theses are usually bound using two main techniques: hard cover binding (case binding) and soft cover binding.
- Hard cover binding: Covers are made from rigid 2.5 mm board, wrapped with 170 gsm coated printed paper. Binding is done with hot-melt adhesive. Maximum spine thickness is 4.5 cm.
- Soft cover binding: The cover is made from 350 gsm cardstock. Binding is done with hot-melt adhesive, commonly referred to as perfect binding (milled spine). Maximum spine thickness is 4.5 cm.
Please note that layout and formatting guidelines—such as font size, recommended typefaces, line spacing, paragraph structure, and cover information—are defined in the style guide of the university where your project is carried out. We recommend confirming these requirements with your thesis supervisor before sending your document to print.
