The standard values
Unless the product page says otherwise:
- Bleed: 2 mm all the way around (3 mm for signage and rigid boards, 1 mm for envelopes).
- Safety zone: 4 mm from the trimmed edge — i.e. 6 mm from the file edge once bleed is added.
- Extend your background (colour, photo, pattern) right to the edge of the bleed.
Why it matters
Sub-millimetre variations are normal at the cutting stage. Without bleed, the slightest shift leaves an unsightly white sliver. Without a safety zone, text placed too close to the edge risks being trimmed off.
What to avoid
Decorative borders hugging the edge: with the slightest shift they look uneven in thickness. Also remove any crop marks before export — centring is handled automatically.
Check before you send
- 2 mm bleed (3 mm for signage) all the way round
- Background extended to the bleed edge
- Text and logos ≥ 4 mm from the trimmed edge
- No border hugging the edge
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I forget the bleed?
A white edge can appear and part of your artwork may be cut off. Best to allow for it yourself; otherwise bleed is added automatically, with no guarantee of the final result.
Not sure about your file?
Our AI assistant checks your file and flags anything that needs adjusting — and can even create your print-ready artwork, bleed included. Nothing goes to press without your approval.
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