Elki Lemmetty: Discussion Point 4

A design destined for print requires setting up to certain specifications to ensure that the work is printed correctly. Within the initial stages of file preparation it is essential that you create correct bleed and crop marks.

Bleed, is the area of artwork that is extended beyond the actual dimensions of the document. It is used to avoid strips of white paper showing on the edges of the print when trimmed. Any objects in the artwork that touch the edges of the document require bleed, for instance a background colour or image should spread to cover the entire bleed area as should any objects that creep in from the side of the page. The standard recommended bleed size is 3mm surrounding the page.

Crop marks are the lines that sit around the edge of the document showing where the area of bleed ends and the proper document area begins, they work alongside bleed to tell the print worker where the paper needs trimming.
Crop marks are usually hairline or 0.25pt in thickness and are set in black.