When it comes to printing materials such as books, magazines, or even business cards, one term you may come across is “bleed agreement”. While this term may sound unfamiliar to some people, it is an important concept in the world of printing.
In simple terms, a bleed agreement is a contract that outlines the amount of space that is required beyond the edge of a printed page. This space is known as a “bleed” and is necessary to ensure that the design of the printed material runs all the way to the edge of the page without any white space showing. In other words, the bleed extends the design beyond the actual page limit.
A bleed agreement is important because it ensures that the printer and the client are on the same page regarding the design of the printed material. It specifies the exact dimensions of the bleed, which is typically 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch beyond the edge of the page. This agreement also indicates the consequences of not following the guidelines, which could result in additional charges or even a reprint.
The reason why a bleed agreement is necessary is that without it, the printer may trim off important parts of the design, which could ruin the entire printed material. For example, if the client wants a photograph to run to the edge of the page, a bleed is necessary to ensure that the photo is not cut off during the trimming process.
A bleed agreement is particularly important for materials that have a full-color background or images that extend to the edge of the page, such as magazines or brochures. This is because if the bleed is not accounted for, the final printed material may have a white border around the design, which can look unprofessional.
In conclusion, a bleed agreement may seem like a small detail, but it plays a crucial role in the final product of printed materials. It ensures that the printer and client are on the same page regarding the dimensions of the bleed and the consequences of not following the guidelines. As a copy editor, it is important to understand the concept of bleed agreements to ensure that the printed material meets the desired outcome.