Bleeds

Bleed is a term that is used to describe a printed sheet which has images or elements that touch or extend beyond the edge, leaving no white margin.  When a document has a bleed, it must be printed on a larger sheet and then trimmed to the final size after printing. Artwork that makes use of image bleed must have images 1/8" extending beyond the final trim edge.

As an example, if a poster's final size is 11" x 17" and that poster has bleeds, we need to print on a larger sheet, usually 12" x 18", and trim to the final size after.

Printed pieces which do not have images going off the edge do NOT bleed.

Bleeds are generally are 1/8 of an inch from where the cut is to be made. Bleeds in the UK and Europe generally are 2 to 5mm from where the cut is to be made. This can vary from one print company to another. Some printers ask for specific sizes; most of these companies place the specific demands on their website or offer templates that are already set to their required bleed settings.

On the above image, the graphic extends beyond the crop marks on 4 sides. Generally, all text should be in from the crop edge at least 1/8" (3mm). A detailed PDF can be downloaded here showing typical layouts, bleeds, and safe zones.

Depending upon which software you are using and/or if you do not know how to create bleeds, we can typically create them for a small additional charge of a minimum $42.90.