# VectorPaint small-print checks: verify size and fine lines in a PDF proof
Language: en
Canonical: [VectorPaint small-print checks: verify size and fine lines in a PDF proof]()
中文：[中文 HTML]()
English: [English HTML]()
Published: 2026-10-23T00:00:00+08:00
Modified: 2026-10-23T10:34:09+08:00
Author: Bison
Prepare a PDF proof for a small card, check document units, physical size, text, fine lines and trim bounds, then confirm production requirements with the printer.
English translation of the [Chinese original](), translated on 2026-10-23. The article body uses automated translation; app descriptions, historical reading notes and video subtitles receive separate editorial checks. Original publication dates, attribution, code and version notes are retained.
A small card that looks clear on screen may print with undersized text, faint thin lines or unexpected overall scaling. This guide uses VectorPaint to prepare a small PDF proof, check its dimensions and content, and then confirm the result in the actual printing process. A proof helps reveal problems; it does not replace the producer's specifications.
## Specify the finished size and intended use first
For a card 100 millimeters wide and 150 millimeters high, first establish whether these are the trimmed finished dimensions or file dimensions that include an extra border. If bleed is needed, confirm its requirements with the producer before creating the document. An arbitrary value is not a universal standard for every print job.
When creating the canvas, choose suitable units, enter the width and height, and check the orientation. Millimeters describe physical size; pixels describe image sampling. Do not copy the same numbers between them. Include the dimensions in the saved document's name to distinguish screen and print versions later.
## Place the main content within the safe area
Keep important text and logos away from trim edges, with clear internal margins. Extend the background according to the confirmed file requirements. Edge decorations can sit closer to the outside, while key information such as telephone numbers, dates and titles must remain intact.
Use temporary references to mark the safe area, then hide those ordinary reference objects. Do not accidentally export them as a border in the finished design. Recheck all four sides after changing type size or moving shapes. With a thick stroke, the visible outer edge may be closer to the boundary than the path's centerline.
## Choose text and fine lines at the actual print size
Screen zoom changes your viewing distance, so make an output at the real size. Start with a clear font and avoid making explanatory text too small. For thin lines, pale text and small icons, samples with different weights or lightness are more useful than guessing in the editor.
Put samples on a separate test page and label the purpose of each setting. Keep test lines out of the finished card. Reliable reproduction of fine lines depends on the equipment, paper and process. The number in the app is a design parameter; the actual proof remains the final check.
## Export the PDF and reopen it for inspection
Choose PDF in Export & Share, confirm the output area and document contents, and save it somewhere easy to find. Reopen it and check the orientation, edges, text and images. Inspect the composition as a complete page first, then zoom in for details.
A PDF can contain vector paths, text and images together. Exporting a low-resolution photograph to PDF does not create missing detail. Check whether it is clear at the planned physical size. Replace it with a better source if necessary rather than merely enlarging the document.
## Check scaling when printing the proof
In the actual print dialog, check options such as original size, 100 percent or fit to page; labels depend on the printing tool. When verifying physical dimensions, avoid unknowingly enabling automatic fitting. After printing, measure a known length with a ruler to confirm the planned size.
If a 100-millimeter side prints at 95 millimeters, check print scaling and page fitting before suspecting the source document. Arbitrarily enlarging the artwork to offset unknown scaling will cause trouble again on another device. Understand the process settings first so that adjustments have a sound basis.
## Sort proofing problems into four categories
Handle four categories separately: content errors, such as dates, typos or missing characters; dimensions and trimming; legibility of fine lines and text; and color and image appearance. Record the category of each change and return to the corresponding source object to fix it.
If printed colors differ from the screen, discuss the requirements and expectations with the producer. Adjusting screen brightness is not professional color calibration. For demanding color work, use suitable proofs and color management. An ordinary VectorPaint PDF cannot be assumed to meet a printing certification merely because of its extension.
## Update the source and delivery files
After revising the proof, save a new source version and export a new PDF with a clear version in its filename. Keep an old proof for comparison if useful, but do not include it with the final files in the same send list. Add a short note covering the finished dimensions, bleed, font handling, included bitmaps and any points the recipient still needs to confirm.
Open the actual attachment once more before sending and confirm that it contains the latest changes. If the recipient requests outlined text or another format, keep an editable text original before producing the required copy. Separate working files from production files so that a later wording change starts from the right document.
## Frequently asked questions
**Does exporting a PDF guarantee it is ready to print?** You still need to confirm dimensions, bleed, fonts, images and the producer's file requirements. PDF is a delivery container; the actual production conditions require separate checks.
**Why are fine lines clear on screen but faint on paper?** Display zoom, paper, ink and output equipment all affect the result. Compare the proof at its true size before adjusting line width or lightness. Enlarging the screen preview does not change lines on paper. Keep the measurements and approved PDF afterward so you can reuse this checking method for similar work.
## Include a measurable test reference
On a separate proof page, add a line of a stated length and label it as a size reference. Measure it with a ruler after printing. Keep it out of the finished design; its purpose is to reveal automatic scaling. Measure horizontally and vertically to detect unintended nonuniform scaling too. Record the print options and measurements so that a future size discrepancy has a direct reference instead of requiring another guess about document units.
## Related tutorials and sources
[Document dimensions and units](), [Choose an output format]().
Based on [VectorPaint App Store description]() and the available feature entry points; [Apple release information]()Checked on October 23, 2026: public version 1.0.7, requiring iOS / iPadOS 17 or later. The dimensions, wording and shapes in this guide are suggested exercises.