IngramSpark Geometry & Setup Guide: Bleed, Spine & Margins¶

Quick Answer¶

IngramSpark flags files when print geometry, color, bleed, font embedding, or metadata requirements fail prepress validation.

IngramSpark's automated "Pre-flight" system checks the physical dimensions of your PDF against the metadata provided in your title setup. Any deviation in trim size, bleed, or spine width will result in an immediate rejection.

1. Bleed & Trim Size¶

Bleed is required for any element that is intended to reach the edge of the finished page. - Bleed Missing: IngramSpark requires a 0.125" (3mm) bleed on all four sides of the cover and on the outer three sides of interior pages. - Trim Size Mismatch: Your PDF "Trim Box" must exactly match the title setup (e.g., 6" x 9"). - Text Outside Safe Zone: All critical text and images must be at least 0.25" away from the trim line to avoid being cut during the binding process.

2. Spine Width & Calculation¶

The spine width is determined by your page count and paper weight (50lb vs 70lb). - Spine Width Mismatch: You MUST use the IngramSpark Cover Template Generator for your specific page count. Reusing a template from a 200-page book for a 204-page book will cause a rejection. - Spine Too Thin: Spine text is only allowed on books with 48 pages or more. Below this, the spine must be left blank.

3. Margins & Gutter¶

Margin Violation: Keep important content at least 0.5" from the trim edge.
Gutter Margin: For thick books, the inner margin (gutter) must be large enough so that text doesn't disappear into the binding.

4. Hardcover Specifics¶

Cover Wrap Size: Hardcover (Case Laminate) files require an extra 0.625" (15.9mm) "Wrap" or "Turn-in" where the art folds over the board. This is in addition to the standard bleed.

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