How to design a leaflet for printing
A good leaflet should communicate its main message quickly, be easy to read and be supplied at the correct size for printing. Here are the main things to check before ordering.
Choose the right size
The best size depends on how the leaflet will be used and how much information it needs to contain.
- A6: Compact and easy to hand out
- A5: A popular all-purpose leaflet size
- DL: Tall and narrow, suitable for price lists and mailings
- A4: Better for detailed information, menus or notices
Trying to fit too much onto a small leaflet can make the text difficult to read. If you need several sections or more detailed information, a folded leaflet or brochure may be more suitable.
Keep the message clear
Decide what the reader needs to know first and make that the most prominent part of the design. Use a clear headline, short sections and one obvious call to action, such as visiting your website, calling, booking or placing an order. Avoid filling every available space. Too many fonts, images, colours or long paragraphs can make the leaflet difficult to follow. Include only the contact details and information that are genuinely useful.
Add bleed and safe margins
If a colour, photograph or background reaches the edge of the leaflet, extend it by 3mm beyond the finished size. This is called bleed and prevents unwanted white edges after trimming. Keep important text and logos at least 4mm inside the finished edge. Avoid thin borders close to the edge, as small movement during cutting can make them look uneven.
Check images, spelling and contact details
Use clear, high-resolution photographs and logos. Images copied from websites, screenshots or social media may appear blurred when printed. Before exporting the file, check:
- Names, prices and dates
- Telephone numbers and email addresses
- Website links and QR codes
- Opening times or event details
- Image quality
- Single- or double-sided page order
Ask someone else to read the leaflet before approving it, as mistakes are often easier for a second person to spot.
Save the finished leaflet as a PDF
A press-quality PDF is the preferred format because it helps preserve the page size, fonts, images and layout. Export the file at the correct finished size and include crop marks and 3mm bleed where possible.
Our Artwork Guide explains how to prepare files using Canva, Adobe and Microsoft Office.