Dieline / Template
A dieline is used as a guide to assist in proper file preparation for printed products that require die cutting. A dieline is never printed, so during the design process, make sure to place it on a separate layer and to not export it with your artwork (unless you are providing a mockup file). Its main purpose is to indicate how your product will be cut and knowing this will allow you to decide how to design your finished piece.
If you are placing an order for a pre-made shape by Jukebox (such as a shaped business card, gift card holder or hang tag), be sure to use the appropriate template for your desired shape as this will include the dieline and proper guides such as safety margin and bleed.
Bleed
Bleed is the artwork that extends past the trim line or finished size of your product. If any element of your artwork is designed to be printed to the edge, it must be extended past the trim line and into the bleed area by a minimum of 0.125".
The addition of bleed compensates for uncontrollable shifts that occur during the printing and trimming process; and ensures that any content touching the edges does not leave unwanted gaps or borders.
Safety Margin
Due to unavoidable shifts that occur during the production process, it is important to place any important content of your design (text and graphics) at least 0.125” away from the edge (trim line). Content within our recommended safety margin of 0125” will not be trimmed.
The safety margin can be defined in Adobe InDesign during the document setup process or in the Margins and Columns section under Layout. In Illustrator and Photoshop, you will have to set up these guides in the document.
Setting up proper safety margins will help avoid having your objects look as if they are about to fall off the page and ensure they are not trimmed off.