Creating and Saving Designs: The Basics

Start every design by creating and opening the new document at the correct bleed size, not the final trim size. Setting the canvas up correctly from the beginning is the single easiest way to avoid white edges, clipped text, and last-minute rework before printing.

• Set the canvas to bleed size: add the extra bleed on each side so backgrounds can run past the trim line.
• Work in CMYK: choose CMYK color mode so what you design matches what the press prints.
• Keep content in the safe zone: hold text and logos away from the trim edge so nothing is cut off.
• Save a print-ready PDF: flatten your layers and export at 300 dpi with bleed included.