Envelopes - Full Colour FAQ

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Are there templates available to help with artwork design?

Yes, there are templates available for download once the size has been selected. It is strongly recommended that the templates are used, as they include all of the proper safe zone margins and bleed guides, as well as the folds and helpful notes regarding the orientation of the content on the flaps and front face. Using one of these templates will help ensure that the final envelope looks as expected.

Can I have bleed on these Envelopes?

Yes, this is the only Envelope product that allows for artwork with bleed. With the other two printing methods, the envelopes arrive already cut and glued into envelope shapes, whereas with the Full-Colour envelopes, they are printed on a flat sheet, then “converted” into envelopes. During this process, they are die-cut, so as long as the proper amount of bleed is given in the artwork, the final envelope will have printing right to the edge.

Why are there fewer size options for Full Colour Envelopes?

Because these envelopes are printed first then cut, a die is required. A die is a cookie-cutter like tool with blades embedded into a wooden block, and therefore the size that can be cut is fixed and a new die is required for each new size. The options available are the most commonly ordered sizes and the dies are already made. As new dies are made, new sizes will be added.

How do I set up printing on the flap?

Unlike the other printing methods, the flap artwork should be included with the art for the front. It will need to be rotated 180 degrees and positioned at the top, just like if you were looking at an envelope with the flap open. The content will be upside down so that it will be right-side-up when the flap is folded. Also, if there is to be a solid colour printed on the entirety of the flap, it should extend a minimum of 1/8” or 0.125” onto the front face of the envelope so there will be a stripe at the top of the completed envelope. This is called “Overbleed” and is needed because the envelopes can shift during the die-cutting and folding processes. If there is no overbleed allowed, there may be some white that shows on the flap, or some envelopes may have the colour bleed over onto the front.

How much margin should be left?

If no elements are intended to bleed, there should be a minimum of 0.125” or 1/8” of margin from all cut edges and folds. If there are elements that will bleed, then they should extend a minimum of 0.125” or 1/8” past the trim or fold lines.