You can design fully custom pages using a third-party program and upload them into our editor as images. While the editor doesn’t currently support building completely custom layouts from scratch, there are flexible workarounds to achieve a custom look. This guide covers best practices to ensure your designs print exactly as expected.
What’s included in this article?
- Designing pages in a third-party program
- Understanding trim and safe zones
- Uploading and placing your designs in the editor
- Creating custom-style layouts within the editor
- Two-page spread (layflat) considerations
Can I design my pages in a third-party program?
Yes. While we don’t currently support direct PDF uploads, you can design your pages in a third-party program (like Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Canva, etc.) and upload them as PNG files.
How to set up your files:
- Add 0.125" (1/8 inch) bleed on all sides of your design
- Keep all important content (text, faces, details) at least 0.125" inside the edges to avoid trimming
- Design in the sRGB color profile for best color accuracy
- Export files at 300 DPI for optimal print quality
- Save each page as an individual PNG (.png)
Sizing example:
For an 8.5" x 8.5" book, your file should be 8.75" x 8.75" to include bleed.
Understanding trim and safe zones
During production, pages are trimmed to their final size. Because of this:
- The outer 0.125" edge may be cut off (trim zone)
- Keep important elements away from edges (safe zone)
- Backgrounds and full-bleed images should extend into the bleed area to avoid white edges
Uploading and placing your designs in the editor
Once your files are ready:
- Upload your PNGs to the editor
- Select a full-bleed layout
- Drag and drop each design into place
Each uploaded image will print exactly as placed, so double-check alignment and order before ordering.
Can I create my own layouts within the editor?
At this time, fully custom layouts cannot be built directly within the editor. However, you can still achieve a custom look by:
- Using full-bleed image layouts for complete control over page design
- Designing layouts externally and uploading them as described above
- Adjusting spacing, cropping, and placement within existing layouts
We’re actively working on expanding layout customization and welcome feedback.
Two-page spread (layflat) considerations
If you’re designing across two pages:
- Layflat albums are the only products designed for seamless spreads
- For these, you can design a single image across both pages
- Be mindful of the center fold—avoid placing important details directly in the middle
For non-layflat books, avoid spanning images across pages, as there will be a visible gutter.
For more information on designing custom layouts for our Hardcover Books and Softcover Books, please view our help article: How to Create Custom Layouts for Hardcover and Softcover Books