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how to export pdf for print in indesign with bleed

HeyBraza points at the pdf/x preset and the 'use document bleed settings' checkbox so your file doesn't export flat with no bleed.

a real printer wants a pdf with bleed, crop marks, and the right colour standard - but indesign's export dialog buries those across two tabs. here's the exact preset and the checkboxes most people forget, so your file comes out press-ready.

or do it yourself

  1. 1go to file > export, choose 'adobe pdf (print)' as the format, and click save.
  2. 2in the export dialog, set the preset to '[pdf/x-1a:2001]' or '[pdf/x-4:2010]' - most commercial printers ask for one of these.
  3. 3open the 'marks and bleeds' tab on the left and tick 'crop marks'.
  4. 4under bleed and slug, tick 'use document bleed settings' (or type your bleed manually, usually 3mm / 0.125in) - without this the file exports with no bleed.
  5. 5click 'export', then open the pdf and check the artwork extends past the trim into the bleed area.

let HeyBraza do this with you

HeyBraza is a tiny on-screen guide that points at the right buttons and talks you through it, on windows and mac.

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common questions

my pdf exported with no bleed even though i set it up - why?

you skipped 'use document bleed settings' on the marks and bleeds tab - the document bleed exists but the export ignores it unless that box is ticked.

which pdf/x setting should i pick?

pdf/x-1a:2001 is the safe default for cmyk print; use pdf/x-4 if your printer supports transparency and spot colours - when unsure, ask the printer.

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