Free KDP cover calculator
Publishing glossary
Bleed in printing: why artwork must cross the trim.
Bleed is the extra artwork area that extends past the trim line so cut edges stay clean.
Checked:
✓KDP requires 0.125 inches on covers✓Interiors with edge artwork need bleed✓A missing bleed causes white slivers
Where bleed applies
Covers always need 0.125 inches on the top, bottom, and outside edges. Interiors only need bleed when images or backgrounds touch the page edge.
- Extend artwork, never stretch it
- Keep text inside the safe margin
- Export one continuous cover PDF
Checking your files before upload
The cover calculator gives the full-wrap dimensions including bleed, and the print PDF checker verifies page size and margins before KDP sees the file.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How much bleed does KDP require?
0.125 inches on the top, bottom, and outer edges of the cover, and on interior pages that have artwork touching the edge.
What happens without bleed?
The trimmed page shows a white sliver where the artwork ended, one of the most common KDP quality rejections.
Put the definition to work for free.
Run your manuscript through the matching free check and see how the term applies to your own book.