some of the elements I've downloaded are at 72 dpi.

How can they be used if my layout is at 300 dpi?

I want to print, not just view on the computer.

Does that mean I can not use the 72dpi elements?

Which elements are 72dpi? Is it possible that you have been downloading the samples instead of the actual .png file?

can you site an example of an element that is 72 dpi?

Most of us create all elements at 300 dpi so I am wondering if you downloaded the jpg sample by right cliciking on the demonstration image instead of clicking on the link to download the actual png file. jpg files are always 72 dpi so this is why I am wondering this.

Now I could be wrong, because I can't speak for everyone else's images and what they might be designed at, but it is worth a check to see if you actually grabbed the right file.

If on the other hand you are using a jpg image, at 72 dpi either from this site or from another, it doesn't mean your layout can't be printed at 300 dpi. You might not get the best resolution on the element itself, but how much that would matter would entirely depend on how large the element is among other things.

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Maya -