Including bleed allows images or color elements on a page to extend beyond the trim edge. But complete bleeds are not always required. Here I point out some considerations to understand when indentation is beneficial for your book.
Evaluate Interior Images
Do interior images need to reach the page edges? If so, bleed ensures no white slivers appear after trimming. For non-background images fully contained on the page, bleed is unnecessary.
Consider the Production Budget
Adding bleed increases production costs. The printing process requires larger sheets to account for the bleed area. Ensure your book budget accommodates potential increases.
Assess Color Usage
Full color throughout all pages? Bleed allows vibrant ink to reach the trimmed edge for uniform color. For black and white or limited color pages, bleed provides fewer visual advantages.
What’s the Page Count?
The page count is important when evaluating cost. Adding bleed to a 20-page pamphlet has less price impact than a 500-page novel. For longer books, selective bleed only for key pages may be preferred.
Does the Cover Have Full Bleed?
Maintaining a cohesive book design means aligning the cover and interior pages. If the cover utilizes full bleed, reflecting that inside creates harmony.
Will Pages Be Shown Unbound?
For books like photo albums that may be displayed open, bleed ensures images are seen fully unbound. No distractions from white margins.
Tips for Effective Bleed Use
- Allow 0.125 to 0.25 inches for bleed extension.
- Keep text/details 0.25 inches from bleed edges.
- Use high-resolution images suitable for enlargement.
- Test thoroughly to avoid unwanted cuts.
Follow these best practices on when to use bleed. Though seemingly a small detail, it produces a polished, professional book when used strategically. Your interior pages will delight readers with immersive imagery or colors extending to the edge.