Common Print File Issues

This page covers the most common issues we find in production files. We provide good and bad examples to help you easily identify these issues and ensure your files are print-ready.

Expand Background to the Edges (Hardcover)

From our hardcover book template, the inner box represents the cover surface, while the outer rim is the part that folds over to wrap around the board. If the background stops at the fold line, even a slight shift can create a misalignment, making the finish look unnatural.

Hardcover book template with artwork extending to the edges, correctly set up Good
Hardcover book template with artwork not extending to the edges, incorrectly set up Bad

Back Cover Fold Line Interference (Perfect Bound)

In a perfect bound book, there is a fold line 0.25" from the edge of the back cover for easy opening. Avoid placing important content on this line, as it may get folded or distorted. Placing a barcode here could cause scanning issues.

Perfect bound back cover has a fold line 0.25 inch from the edge for easy opening

Non-Standard Barcode

Most scanners can only read black bars on a white background. Using other colors may cause scanning issues.

Standard Barcode with White Background and Black Bars Good
Non-Standard Bardcode with Black Background and White Bars Bad

Image Ends at Trim Line

Avoid ending an image right at the trim line. Even a slight cutting shift could leave an unnatural white edge.

Click here for short clip on how to view the trim line in Adobe Reader.

Image extends fully to the edge, correct setup. Good
Image stops at the trim line, which may cause unwanted white edges. Bad