Expert: Nick Putthoff - 2/7/2008

Question
Hi Nick,

I am currently workin gwith adobe illustrator cs2, I have designed some business cards and dl postcards. I have been asked to make sure that all artwork allows 3mm for bleed. I have no idea how to insert/creat bleed lines to my artowrk? Can you please help me..

Answer
Linda,
Bleed only becomes a consideration if your design will print to the edge where the cards will be trimmed. So if your artwork does not extend to the trim edge of the printed piece do not worry about bleed. However if your artwork does print to the edge you will have to extend the art past the trim edge the specified amount. If the area that extends to the trim is a background image or pattern try enlarging it just enough to cover the amount the printer specifies. If the artwork is a vector shape try adding points to the shapes and moving the points past the trim edge the specified amount.
Bleed is necessary because the printer will cut your printed pieces in stacks and the "draw" of the cutter's blade will move the items in the stack slightly. As the printer cuts your pieces they may not appear uniform. Some may show the paper color between where the design ends and the edge is trimmed. Some may look good and others may not. So even if your artwork does not go all the way to the trim edge it is also a good idea not to design the piece with graphics too close to the edge.
Your printer can compensate for the lack of bleeds on your artwork by cutting the piece slightly smaller than usual but they will charge an extra fee for the set up. Also the if the postcards are cut smaller to accommodate the lack of bleed, the cards may not conform to postal regulations.
I hoped this info helps.
Remember that bleeds, traps and promptly paid invoices are the printer's best friends.

Good Luck


Nick