Support Center
Support Center » File Preparation & Transmission » Design Requirements
We are committed to the quick, convenient, trouble-free processing of your order. To avoid many of the common errors associated with file preparation for printing, we’ve creating the following File Preparation for Print FAQ’s for our clients:
- What are BLEEDS and why do I need them?
- What are the requirements for printing BORDERS?
- What is the required RESOLUTION for printing?
- How do I achieve rich, SOLID BLACK COLOR in my printed documents?
BLEEDS
Bleeds are important because it is not possible to print all the way to the edge of the finished product. To achieve this effect it is necessary to extend the ‘printed area’ beyond that of the ‘trimmed area’, printing a larger area than is required and then trimming the final project to the finished size.
If your artwork makes use of a white border, bleeding the artwork are not required. However, if your artwork is intended to extend right to the edge of the final product, then you MUST bleed your files.
Printing without bleeds:
If your image has a white border on all four sides, bleeds are recommended but not required.
Printing with Bleeds:
Add 1/8" or 0.125" to each side of the file. For example, an 11.5” X 10.5" insert for a binder cover should have the submitted artwork sized 11.75" x 10.75". This bleed area will be trimmed off during the cutting process leaving you with a finished 11.5” x 10.5” binder cover insert.
