Configuring Registration Marks in CorelDRAW

CorelDRAW provides several configurable prepress controls that allow designers and print technicians to include and adjust registration marks for precise plate alignment during commercial printing. Located primarily within the Prepress tab of the Print dialog, these settings ensure multi-color separation jobs align accurately on press. This guide outlines the specific registration mark settings and related alignment controls you can configure within the software.

Accessing Registration Mark Settings

To configure registration marks in CorelDRAW:

  1. Click File > Print.
  2. Select the Prepress tab in the Print dialog box.
  3. Locate the Registration marks section to enable and customize the options.

Configurable Registration Mark Options

  • Enable Registration Marks: By selecting the Registration marks checkbox, CorelDRAW automatically adds target alignment marks to the perimeter of your document.
  • Registration Mark Styles: CorelDRAW offers different graphic styles for the marks via a style dropdown. These styles typically include standard crosshairs, centered circle targets, and specific regional variations (such as standard exterior targets or inverted targets), allowing you to match the visual preference of your print shop.
  • Print on All Separations: When printing color separations, CorelDRAW automatically assigns the marks the specialized "Registration" color (100% Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black). This ensures the registration marks appear in the exact same position across every individual plate or separation sheet.
  • Offset Margin: You can configure the distance between the registration marks and the edge of the page or trim line. Adjusting the offset ensures the marks stay outside the final cut area while remaining within the printable area of the sheet.

Complementary Prepress Mark Settings

Alongside registration marks, the Prepress tab allows configuration of associated alignment and calibration controls:

  • Crop and Fold Marks: Enable and offset cut lines to indicate where the printed piece will be trimmed.
  • Bleed Limits: Define the boundary extension beyond the trim line so registration marks do not interfere with artwork bleeds.
  • Color Calibration Bars: Add CMYK and grayscale step wedges alongside registration marks to verify ink density and color balance.
  • Densitometer Scales: Include measurable tint blocks for prepress quality control.
  • Page Information: Automatically print the file name, plate/separation color, page number, and time stamp along with the registration marks for accurate sheet identification.