Properly set the bleed – for clean print results without white edges
Modern cutting machines operate with extreme precision. Nevertheless, minimal tolerances can occur during production. To prevent unwanted white edges from appearing on your printed product, your layout should be prepared using a so-called [missing word - likely "edge" or "edge"]. Trimming be created.
The bleed is an additional border area that extends beyond the actual final format and is removed during trimming. This ensures that backgrounds, images, or colors extend cleanly to the edge.
What is pruning?
Trim refers to an extended border around your printed design. This additional area is cut off during the cutting process. It ensures that even with minor deviations in the cut, no white edges will be visible.
How much pruning is required?
The required bleed allowance depends on the specific product.
You can find the exact details in the product-specific data specifications in the shop – especially in the upload area of your chosen item.
Please be sure to adhere to the dimensions specified there.
Creating a bleed in Adobe Illustrator – step by step
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Open or create a new document in Adobe Illustrator.
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Choose File → Document Setup.
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Enter the required crop value for the top, bottom, left, and right.
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Confirm with OK.
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Allow backgrounds and graphics to extend into the bleed area.
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Choose File → Save As.
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Choose the format. Adobe PDF.
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In the PDF options, switch to “Brands and trim” and activate
"Use document bleed settings". -
Save the PDF file.
Practical tip
For a smooth export, we recommend using appropriate PDF presets. This ensures that all technical requirements are automatically and correctly applied.
Important information about pruning
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Add bleed even if your file has a Cutting contour contains.
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The cutting contour may do not extend into the trim area, but must lie entirely within the drawing area.
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When using official print templates, the bleed is already included. In this case, you do not need to add any additional bleed.