Common IngramSpark Formatting Errors and How to Fix Them (With Examples)

Why Formatting Errors Happen on IngramSpark

IngramSpark offers high-quality printing and worldwide distribution, but it also has strict technical requirements. Even experienced authors often face upload rejections due to simple formatting mistakes. Understanding these issues — and how to fix them — can save you time, frustration, and revision fees.
This article explains the most common IngramSpark formatting errors and shows you exactly how to resolve each one.

Missing or Incorrect Bleed

One of the most frequent submission errors is a missing bleed. Bleed is required when any artwork or background color touches the edge of the page.

How to Fix It

• Add 0.125" (3 mm) bleed to all sides of every full-bleed page.

• Ensure illustrations extend past the trim line, not just to the edge.

• Re-export your PDF with bleed enabled in the export settings.

Example

If a character’s arm is right at the page edge, extend the artwork slightly beyond the boundary so trimming remains accurate.

Wrong Trim Size

If your document size doesn’t match the selected trim size, IngramSpark will reject your file immediately.

How to Fix It

• Confirm your chosen trim size in your design software: e.g., 8.5" x 8.5", 7" x 10", 6" x 9".

• Adjust your canvas or document setup before exporting.

• Do not scale the PDF — resize and reformat the file properly.

Example

You selected 8.5" x 8.5", but your pages are 8" x 8" — this causes an instant rejection.

RGB Images Instead of CMYK

IngramSpark requires CMYK color mode for all print interiors and covers. RGB images may cause dull printing or a file rejection.

How to Fix It

• Convert all artwork to CMYK using Photoshop, Illustrator, Affinity, or Procreate (CMYK profile enabled).

• Re-export each illustration and reinsert into your layout.

• Export your PDF with CMYK settings only.

Example

Bright neon blues or greens often shift dramatically when printed if created in RGB.

Low-Resolution Images (Below 300 DPI)

Images under 300 DPI appear blurry or pixelated in print. IngramSpark may accept the file but flag it with a warning.

How to Fix It

• Ensure every illustration is at least 300 DPI before placing it into your layout.

• Do not stretch or enlarge artwork, as this lowers resolution.

• If an image is low-quality, redraw or recreate it at the correct DPI.

Example

A 1200x1200 pixel image is too small for an 8.5" x 8.5" full-page illustration.

Fonts Not Embedded

If fonts aren’t embedded, IngramSpark may return errors or print the text incorrectly.

How to Fix It

• Export using PDF/X-1a:2001, which embeds fonts automatically.

• Avoid uncommon or unlicensed fonts.

• Use standard fonts or check licenses for commercial printing.

Example

If your book uses a decorative font not embedded in the PDF, it may print using a default font instead.

Incorrect Margin or Safe Zone Setup

Margins protect your text from being cut off during trimming. If text is too close to the edge, IngramSpark rejects the file.

How to Fix It

• Use margins of 0.5" to 0.75" on all sides.

• Keep text at least 0.25" inside the margins.

• Check for consistency across all pages.

Example

A story sentence placed too close to the edge may get cut during trimming.

Transparency or Layer Issues

Illustration layers or transparency effects can cause visual problems in print or generate submission errors.

How to Fix It

• Flatten all artwork before exporting.

• Remove drop shadows, glows, or semi-transparent overlays.

• Use the “Flatten Transparency” option in InDesign or Illustrator.

Example

Transparent PNG illustrations may print with visible outlines or artifacts.

Incorrect Page Count

Your interior PDF must match the exact page count selected in IngramSpark — no more, no less.

How to Fix It

• Page count must be divisible by 2.

• Add blank pages if needed to reach the correct total.

• Recheck your page numbers after exporting.

Example

Most children’s books have 24, 28, or 32 pages.

Single Pages vs. Spreads Confusion

IngramSpark requires single-page PDFs, but many authors mistakenly upload spreads.

How to Fix It

• Design your book in spreads if needed.

• Export as single pages with bleed.

• Ensure left and right pages align properly.

Example

A two-page spread should become two single pages, each with the full bleed included.

File Not Exported as PDF/X-1a

If you export using a regular PDF preset, IngramSpark may reject it due to fonts, layers, or color issues.

How to Fix It

• Always choose PDF/X-1a:2001 during export.

• This preset embeds fonts, flattens layers, and converts everything to CMYK.

Conclusion: Fixing Errors Early Saves Time and Money

Most IngramSpark formatting issues can be prevented with proper planning and attention to detail. By using correct trim sizes, bleed, margins, CMYK colors, and export settings, you dramatically increase your chances of a smooth upload and a professional printed result.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does IngramSpark reject my PDF?

Usually because of missing bleed, RGB images, wrong trim size, or incorrect export settings.

Can Canva files pass IngramSpark’s requirements?

Yes — but you must convert to PDF/X-1a and adjust colors to CMYK.

Do children’s books require full bleed?

Almost always, especially when artwork fills the page.