Bleed and Margin Technical Guide

Set up files to avoid white edges and cut-off text
Example print shown “as cut” with no bleed (tight crop to final trim size).
As Cut
Example print shown “with bleed” (visible extra edge area beyond trim).
With Bleed

Understanding Bleed Requirements

To ensure your print products look professional and avoid unwanted white edges or cut-off text, set up your files using these industry-standard guidelines.

Technical Specs
0.125" Bleed
Trim Size
Safe Zone

■ The Bleed Line

Extend background images and colors 0.125" (3mm) beyond the trim edge. This prevents white slivers if the cut shifts slightly.

■ The Trim Line

This is the final size after cutting. For a standard 4x6" print, the trim line is exactly 4x6". Your file should be slightly larger to include bleed.

■ The Safe Zone

Keep text, logos, and key details at least 0.125" inside the trim line so nothing important gets clipped during trimming or binding.

Pro Print Tips

!
Avoid Text Cut-offs

Never place text right on the trim line. Even precise cutters can vary slightly. A generous margin makes designs look more intentional.

HD
Image Resolution

Use at least 300 DPI at final size. Scaling up low-res images will pixelate no matter how perfect the bleed is.

▦
Full Bleed Backgrounds

If your design has a background color or texture, it must fill the entire canvas (including bleed) to prevent thin white edges.

Still not sure? Use our templates.

We’ve prepared pre-set files for Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign with the correct margins already configured for the products you offer.

Cheat Sheet (PDF) All Templates