Definition
Bleed is the extra image or background area that extends beyond the trim edge so nothing white shows when pages are cut. Print files include bleed margins beyond the final page size.
Example
A full-page illustration extends 0.125 inches past the trim line on all sides to allow clean cutting.
Related terms
Common mistakes
- Placing important text inside the bleed zone where it may be trimmed off.
- Exporting print PDFs at trim size only with no bleed for full-bleed covers.