Learn how to export a Dorico project to PDF flawlessly with pro tips on formatting, merging parts, and creating print-ready files.
I remember the first time I tried to export a Dorico project to PDF. What should have been a simple task quickly turned into a frustrating ordeal. Pages went missing, formatting broke, and I couldn’t figure out how to merge all my parts into a single file. Sound familiar? If so, you’re in the right place.
This guide isn’t just about clicking “Export.” It’s about getting flawless PDFs every time, complete with all the parts, professional formatting, and even watermarks if you need them. Just like in digital marketing, where presentation and precision matter, ensuring your exported PDFs look polished and print-ready is key. I’ll also share some pro tips that most people miss, helping you create a bulletproof workflow that saves time and frustration.
Article Breakdown
Step-by-Step: Exporting a Dorico Project to PDF
1. Open Print Mode
Dorico handles PDF exports through its Print mode, so the first step is to navigate there. You can do this by pressing Ctrl/Cmd + 5 or by clicking the Print tab at the top.
2. Choose Graphics as the Destination
By default, Dorico assumes you want to send your project to a printer. Instead, locate the Destination section and select Graphics from the dropdown menu.
3. Set the Format to PDF
Under Graphics Format, choose PDF. This ensures that Dorico generates a digital version of your score instead of a printer-friendly file.
4. Adjust Color Options
- Color: If your score contains colored elements (e.g., red rehearsal marks), choose this option.
- Mono: Ideal for black-and-white printing to save ink.
5. Select Your Save Location
Click Choose Folder and select where you want Dorico to save the PDF. Make sure it’s a place you’ll remember.
6. Export and Verify
Hit Export and check the PDF to ensure everything looks correct. Trust me, always check, there’s nothing worse than sending off an incomplete file.
Want a quick visual demo? Check out this 30-second video tutorial.
Advanced Tips to Make Your PDFs Flawless
Fixing Missing Pages in PDF Exports
I once sent out a PDF that only contained the first page of a piece. Embarrassing, right? Turns out, Dorico sometimes lags when exporting multiple layouts.
How to Prevent Missing Pages:
- After selecting multiple layouts in Print mode, wait 5-10 seconds before hitting Export. Dorico needs time to process them.
- Double-check that “All Pages” is selected under Page Range.
Exporting Score & Parts in One PDF (Pro Trick)
By default, Dorico exports the full score and individual parts as separate PDFs. But sometimes, you need everything in one file.
How to Merge PDFs:
- Export each layout as a separate PDF.
- Use PDFsam (a free tool) or Adobe Acrobat to combine them into one document.
Why does this matter? Imagine you’re sending a score to a conductor. Instead of ten different PDFs, they get one clean file. That’s professionalism.
Adding Watermarks to Your PDF
If you’re sending drafts to a client, adding a PROOF watermark is a good idea.
Steps to Add a Watermark in Dorico:
- In Print Mode, navigate to Annotations.
- Enable Watermark and type your text (e.g., “PROOF”).
- If you have Dorico Pro, tweak the font size in Library > Font Styles.
This trick has saved me countless headaches when sharing unfinished projects.
Export Like a Pro
By now, you should have a rock-solid workflow for exporting Dorico projects to PDF. No more missing pages. No more awkward file merges. No more stress.
Here’s what you’ve learned:
- How to export PDFs properly in Dorico.
- How to fix missing pages and ensure nothing gets lost.
- How to merge scores and parts into one file for easy sharing.
- How to add watermarks to keep drafts separate from final versions.
