Understanding Document Size, Trim Size, and Bleed for StationeryHQ.com
Understanding Document Size, Trim Size, and Bleed for StationeryHQ.com
Understanding Document Size, Trim Size, and Bleed
One of the most common pre-press mistakes is confusing the finished product size with the total artwork size.
What is trim size?
Trim size is the final physical dimension of the printed piece after it has been cut.
For example, a 5 x 7-inch invitation has a finished trim size of 5 inches wide by 7 inches high.
What is bleed?
Bleed is the additional artwork extending beyond the final trim edge. It allows the printed piece to be cut without leaving unwanted white edges.
StationeryHQ's general file setup guideline requires 0.125 inches of bleed on each side.
For a flat card, this means adding 0.125 inches to both dimensions.
Example: 5 x 7-inch flat card
| Measurement | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Finished trim size | 5 in | 7 in |
| Left/right bleed combined | 0.25 in | — |
| Top/bottom bleed combined | — | 0.25 in |
| Total artwork size | 5.25 in | 7.25 in |
<caption>Example based on StationeryHQ's published 0.125-inch bleed requirement.</caption>
How should artwork extend into bleed?
If a background color, photograph, illustration, or pattern reaches the edge of the finished product, extend it through the bleed area.
Do not stop the artwork at the trim line. If you do, small variations in cutting can expose an unprinted edge.
What is a safe zone?
The safe zone is the area inside the trim line where important information should remain.
Keep critical text, logos, names, addresses, and other essential design elements away from the cut edge.
StationeryHQ's general file setup page specifies a minimum border width of 0.125 inches plus 0.125 inches of bleed, for a total of 0.25 inches or greater on each side when borders are included.
For important design elements, use the product-specific safe-area guidance or template.