Expert: Ken Black - 7/23/2009

Question
I need to design an ad for a newspaper-type publication. We will be doing a spread - size 15 1/8"  x10"(non bleed)/ 16 1/2" x11 1/8" (bleed). When I set this up, should I set it up as one page with the given dimensions or should I try to cut that in half and make a 2 page spread?

Also, why don't they give the bleed dimensions themselves instead - like .125" bleed?
Thanks for any help!


Answer
Hi Jennifer,

In this case, following the given instruction from the printer performing the manufacturing is the path to take. Different printers have varying reasons when requesting trim size and bleed depending upon the equipment, software and processes that they are using.

In order to achieve desirable results and avoid incurring excess cost, it would be advisable to follow the specifications supplied by the printer. As for setting the spread up as a 1 or 2 page document, again, you should consult the printer as it is possible that imposing a 2 page spread may not fit within their desired work flow.

It is interesting to note that they are giving bleed dimensions that are asymmetrical. These dimensions show 1.375" of horizontal bleed and 1.125" for vertical bleed. It is worth the effort to contact the printer regarding this. If these are the proper dimensions for a spread with bleed, do be sure to give yourself enough safety margin, at least .25" away from the trim, for important elements such as text. It is possible that the printer will be running this on a web press which should also incorporate the finishing, or folding and trimming. While that amount of bleed seems exorbitant, this process can have a lot of fluctuation depending on the stock being used, the speed of the press and the skill of the operator.

They may be giving the bleed dimensions as part of the overall size to accommodate users of software that do not include bleed. As in, Indesign allows you to specify a bleed margin and Photoshop, Illustrator, Quark Xpress, and most office level software (think Microsoft Word or Publisher) do not. By having the page size include the bleed, the software short coming and designer error of not extending elements for bleed can be somewhat avoided. Although, now the actual trim edge and subsequent safety margins must be calculated and followed more closely. Another reason for the page dimension including bleed may be due to the imposition and rip software the printer uses to set up the job, may not recognize bleed beyond the defined document edges there for requiring the bleed to be "built-in" to the overall document.

Be sure to consult the printer on this one before making any overall decision, it will save you from making the wrong one.

Thanks,

Ken Black

www.bestprintingonline.com