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Artwork guide · print planning

Bleed, trim and safe area explained

Three boundaries prevent white slivers and clipped information.

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Example layout boundaries
Bleed area
Final trim
Keep important text here

For an A5 sheet (148 × 210 mm), 3 mm bleed on each edge makes the supplied artwork 154 × 216 mm. This is an example; follow the exact job specification.

Work through the job in four steps

  1. Trim

    The trim line is the intended final edge. Confirm the finished size before placing content.

  2. Bleed

    Extend background colours and images beyond the trim so small cutting movement does not reveal white paper. A common starting point is 3 mm, but the job specification controls.

  3. Safe area

    Keep logos, text, QR codes and fine borders inside the trim. The margin depends on size, finishing and installation.

  4. Proof

    Check each page edge and any folded or bound area in the exported PDF.

Common mistake

Adding bleed in an export dialog cannot invent artwork outside a cropped image; extend the design itself.

Before you send the file

Check the exact specification with The Print Centre Warrington before final export. Bleed, resolution, colour setup, imposition and finishing allowances depend on the product and production route. Approve the final file and content yourself.

Keep planning

How to make a print-ready PDF →

Technical background: Adobe print guidance ↗. Our practical notes adapt this for planning; your approved job specification takes precedence.

Local team · Warrington

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