This guide explains how to create custom layouts and two-page spreads using our editor and third-party design tools. It covers best practices for working with Hardcover books versus Layflat albums, including how to account for trim, binding, and alignment. You’ll also find step-by-step instructions to help ensure your final project prints as expected.
What’s included in this article?
- Can I create a two-page spread in my Hardcover or Softcover Book?
- How to create a two-page spread in a Hardcover or Softcover Book
- Designing custom layouts in a third-party program
- Important guidelines for trim, bleed, and binding
- Tips for best print results
Can I create a two-page spread in my Hardcover or Softcover Book?
Two-page spreads are fully supported in our Layflat albums (Layflat, Wedding Layflat, Wedding Guest Book, and Signature Layflat). These books are designed to open completely flat, making them ideal for seamless images across both pages.
For Hardcover Books and Softcover Books, two-page spreads are not built into the editor. While you can create this effect manually, alignment across the center fold is not guaranteed due to the binding.
How to create a two-page spread in a Hardcover or Softcover Book
If you’d like to create a spread in a Hardcover book, follow these steps:
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Design with the binding in mind
Hardcover books have a center gutter where pages are bound together. Approximately 0.5" of your image may be lost in this area. Avoid placing important details (faces, text, focal points) in the center. -
Split your image into two files
Use a third-party program to divide your image into two equal halves—left and right. Export each half as a high-resolution PNG. -
Upload and place images in the editor
- Choose a full-bleed layout for both pages
- Place the left image on the left page
- Place the right image on the right page
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Align visually
Do your best to line up the images, but keep in mind slight shifts may occur during printing due to binding.
Designing custom layouts in a third-party program
If you want more control over your layouts, you can design pages outside of our editor.
Here’s how:
- Design each page in your preferred program (Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Canva, etc.)
- Add 0.125" bleed on all sides of your design
- Example: An 8.5" x 8.5" book page should be designed at 8.75" x 8.75"
- Keep important elements away from the outer edges and center binding
- Export each page as a PNG, 300 DPI, sRGB color profile
- Upload your files and place them using a full-bleed layout in the editor
Important guidelines for trim, bleed, and binding
- Trim (0.125"): The outer edge of your page that may be cut during production
- Bleed: Extend backgrounds or images beyond the trim to avoid white edges
- Safe zone: Keep text and important details slightly inside the trim
- Binding (Hardcover only): Expect ~0.5" loss in the center gutter
Tips for best print results
- Use high-resolution images (300 DPI at final size)
- Avoid placing text across the center of Hardcover spreads
- Preview your project using a PDF proof before ordering
- For guaranteed seamless spreads, choose a Layflat album
If you’re aiming for a clean, continuous image across two pages, a Layflat album will always provide the most reliable result.