What is Printing "Bleed" and Why Do I Need It?

Printing machines aren't perfect. When we trim your cards or flyers, the blade might shift slightly. Bleed is extra background color that extends beyond the trim line to ensure your design goes all the way to the edge without any white slivers.

How Your Files Should Look

Good Card

✅ CORRECT: Background extends to the edge.

Bad Card

❌ INCORRECT: Background stops at the cut line.

Setup Guides for Modern Tools

CANVA Canva Bleed Checklist:
  • Step 1: Set document to the Final Trim Size.
  • Step 2: Go to File > View Settings > Show Print Bleed. Stretch background past the dashed line.
  • Step 3: Click Share > Download. Select PDF Print and check "Crop marks and bleed."
  • Step 4: Select CMYK color profile and Download.
ILLUSTRATOR Illustrator Press-Ready PDF Checklist:
  • Document Setup: Ensure artboard is final trim size (e.g. 11x17) and set Bleed to 0.125" on all sides.
  • Export: Go to File > Save As and select Adobe PDF. Use the [Press Quality] preset.
  • Marks & Bleeds: Check "Use Document Bleed Settings." Do not include crop marks unless requested.
  • Output: Set Color Conversion to "Convert to Destination (Preserve Numbers)" and Destination to "Document CMYK."
PHOTOSHOP Photoshop Print File Checklist:
  • Canvas Size: Add 0.125" bleed to all sides manually (e.g. an 11x17 becomes 11.25" x 17.25").
  • Resolution: Ensure your document is set to 300 Pixels/Inch.
  • Safe Zone: Keep all text at least 0.125" inside the final trim edge.
  • Save: Save as Photoshop PDF with the [Press Quality] preset.

Technical Quick Specs

Resolution:

300 DPI (High Res)

Color Mode:

CMYK Only

Rich Black Build:

C:50 / M:40 / Y:40 / K:100

Accepted Formats:

.PDF, .JPG, .TIF