Bleed:

Please include a 3mm bleed on all sides of your artwork. Bleed is the extra artwork that
extends beyond the final trim size. This ensures that no white edges appear on your
finished product after it’s cut. For example, if your final print size is A4 (210mm x
297mm), your artwork file should be 216mm x 303mm.

Colour Profile:

All artwork must be supplied in CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) colour mode.
This is the standard colour mode for professional printing. Artwork submitted in RGB or
other colour modes may result in colour shifts or inaccuracies in the final printed product.

Black Ink:

For areas of solid black, please ensure your black ink is set to 100% K (Key/Black).
Avoid using a “rich black” or composite black unless specifically required for your design,
as this can sometimes lead to issues with ink drying and smudging.

Layers:

Before submitting your artwork, all layers must be merged and flattened. This simplifies
the file and prevents any issues with missing fonts or layer effects during the printing
process. Flattening the image ensures that what you see is what we print.

File Format:

Please supply your artwork as a flattened, merged PDF (Portable Document Format).
This is the preferred file format for printing as it preserves fonts, images, and layout.
Please ensure the PDF is not password protected.

Fonts:

Please send us all fonts used in your artwork. This is crucial for us to be able to properly
process your files. You can either embed the fonts in the PDF (preferred) or send them
as separate font files (e.g., .otf, .ttf). If embedding the fonts, please double check that the
fonts are actually embedded and not just subsetted.

Summary Checklist:

● [ ] 3mm bleed on all sides
● [ ] CMYK colour profile
● [ ] 100% K (Key/Black) for solid black areas
● [ ] All layers merged and flattened
● [ ] Flattened, merged PDF file format
● [ ] Fonts embedded in PDF or supplied separately

If you have any questions or require further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
We’re here to help!

The Print Shop
Phone: 0861177468
Whatsapp: +27660162185
Email: sales@theprintshop.co.za or info@theprintshop.co.za
Website: https://theprintshop.co.za/
Location: Shop 42 on 53 Adelaide Tambo Drive, Durban North, 4051 (In Kensington Square)

What is Bleed in Printing?

Bleed refers to the area of your design that extends beyond the actual trim size of the final printed piece. This extra space is essential because it prevents any unwanted white borders from appearing at the edges of your print. During the printing process, slight shifts can occur, and bleed helps ensure that your design covers the entire surface without any gaps.

For most projects, a standard bleed is typically 0.125 inches (or 3mm) on each side. However, it’s important to check with your printer to confirm their specific requirements.

Why is Bleed Important?

Bleed is important because it accounts for any minor inaccuracies in the trimming process. Without bleed, you risk having your artwork cut off or leaving unsightly white margins. This is especially critical for designs with backgrounds or elements that reach the edge of the page, as bleed ensures a seamless look.

Setting Up Bleed in Your Design Software

Most design software, like Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, or Photoshop, allows you to add bleed easily. Here’s a quick guide to setting it up:

1. Create a New Document: When you start a new project, look for the bleed settings option. In Adobe InDesign, for example, you can find this in the “New Document” window.
2. Input Bleed Measurements: Enter the necessary bleed dimensions. Remember, the standard is usually 0.125 inches, but confirm with your printer.
3. Design Beyond the Trim: Ensure that backgrounds and images extend to the edge of the bleed area. Text and important elements should be kept within the safe margin, which is typically 0.25 inches inside the trim line.

Finalizing Your Artwork for Print

Once your design is complete, it’s time to prepare it for printing. Here are some final steps to ensure success:

• Export with Bleed: When exporting your file, make sure to select options that include bleed. In PDF exports, look for settings like “Use Document Bleed Settings” to maintain your bleed area.
• Check for Errors: Before sending your artwork to print, do a thorough check for any errors, such as typos or alignment issues.
• Communicate with Your Printer: Always have a conversation with your printer about their specific requirements. This ensures your file meets their standards and avoids any last-minute surprises.

By understanding and correctly setting up bleed in your artwork, you’ll achieve a professional-looking print that meets your expectations. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or new to the printing world, mastering this aspect of design will set you on the path to success.