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trim size

Also known as: finished size · cut size

Trim size is the final dimensions of a printed piece after it's been cut to size. A 3.5″ × 2″ business card has a trim size of 3.5″ × 2″.

When designing, your document should be set to the trim size + bleed allowance. So a 3.5″ × 2″ business card with 0.125″ bleed needs a 3.75″ × 2.25″ document. The trim size is what shows up on the finished card; everything outside the trim line gets cut away. Knowing the trim size is essential for laying out borders, frames, or any element you want to sit exactly N inches from the edge.