A practical glossary to help you understand the language used by designers, printers and print suppliers.
Print production comes with its own vocabulary, and some terms can sound more complicated than they actually are.
You don’t need to memorise everything. Use this page as a reference whenever a designer or printer mentions something you’re unfamiliar with.
Artwork
The final design prepared for printing, including typography, images, colors and graphic elements.
Print-ready file
A file prepared according to the printer’s technical specifications and ready to enter their production workflow.
Bleed
Extra artwork extending beyond the final trimmed edge, helping prevent unwanted white borders after cutting.
Trim line
The line showing where the printed piece is intended to be cut to its final size.
Safe area
The area where important text, logos and information should remain away from edges or cuts.
Crop marks
Small marks that can indicate where the printed piece should be trimmed. Whether they are required depends on the printer.
Resolution / DPI
A measure commonly used when discussing the resolution of raster images for print. Your printer or designer should confirm the appropriate requirements for the project.