KDP Bleed — Explained Simply

What Bleed Is

Bleed is the extra art that extends past the page edge so that when the book is trimmed, the color reaches the edge with no white line. KDP defines bleed as .125 inches (3.2mm) beyond the trim on all four sides. A full-bleed page (color all the way to the edge) must use it.

When You Need Bleed

• Full-bleed covers — essentially every KDP cover needs bleed so color reaches the trim.
• Full-bleed interiors — coloring books, picture books, photo books with art to the edge.
• No bleed needed — if the design sits inside the safe area (typically 0.25" from the trim), bleed is optional.
• KDP file setup — when you set up the title you choose “Bleed” or “No Bleed” — match it to your file.

How to Add It

• Canvas size — build pages at trim + 0.25" total (0.125" each side).
• Extend art — background art must reach the outer edge of that canvas, not just the trim.
• Keep text safe — keep text and important elements at least 0.25" inside the trim line.
• Export full-bleed — export the whole canvas including the bleed area; KDP trims it off.
• Preview — the KDP previewer shows what the trimmed book looks like; check before publishing.

The No-Bleed Alternative

If your interior has white margins anyway (journals, standard novels, workbooks with set margins), you can publish no-bleed and build pages at exactly the trim size with content inside the safe area. This is simpler and avoids rejection. Use bleed only when art genuinely reaches the edge.