If you have ever been asked to add bleed to your artwork, you may have wondered what that means. Bleed, trim and safe area are three important parts of preparing a design for professional printing.
What is the trim size?
The trim size is the final size of the printed piece after it has been cut. For example, a standard business card has a finished trim size of 3.5 × 2 inches.
What is bleed?
Bleed is extra artwork that extends beyond the finished edge. It prevents unwanted white lines from appearing when the piece is trimmed.
Most printed products require 0.125 inch of bleed on every side. A 3.5 × 2-inch business card should therefore be submitted at 3.75 × 2.25 inches.
Any background color, photograph or design element that is supposed to reach the edge must extend completely through the bleed area.
What is the safe area?
The safe area is the space inside the trim line where important information should be placed. Keep names, phone numbers, logos and other essential content at least 0.125 inch inside the finished edge.
A simple checklist
Before submitting your file:
- Extend backgrounds 0.125 inch beyond every finished edge.
- Keep important text at least 0.125 inch inside the trim.
- Use high-resolution images whenever possible.
- Save the artwork as a print-quality PDF.
- Check the final page dimensions before uploading.
Following these guidelines helps us produce a clean, professional finished piece. If you are unsure whether your file is ready, contact BMD Printing before placing your order.
Suggested links: Design Requirements, Common Templates, Design Services.
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