A designer’s backstage area for notes, job info, and printer instructions.
When working on print layouts in Adobe InDesign, you’ve probably heard about bleeds, margins, and crop marks—but what about the slug?
The slug is one of the most underrated tools in InDesign. It doesn’t appear in the final trimmed document, but it plays a big role behind the scenes—especially when collaborating with printers, clients, or team members.
In this guide, we’ll explain what the slug is, how to use it effectively, and why it’s helpful for professional print workflows.
🧾 What Is the Slug in InDesign?
The slug is an area outside the page and bleed that allows you to include extra non-printing information like:
- Print job details
- Color specs
- Version notes
- Proofing instructions
- Contact info
- Die lines, fold lines, etc.
Think of it as your project’s scratchpad or production label. It doesn’t show up in the final print piece after trimming, but it’s visible on press sheets and digital proofs.
📐 How to Set Up a Slug Area in InDesign
You can add a slug when creating a new document or by editing an existing one:
🆕 When Creating a New Document:
- Go to File > New > Document
- Click the “More Options” button (bottom left)
- Expand the Bleed and Slug section
- Enter values for the Slug Top, Bottom, Left, and Right (e.g., 0.25 in or 6 mm)
✏️ For an Existing Document:
- Go to File > Document Setup
- Click “Bleed and Slug”
- Enter your slug dimensions as needed
The slug area will now be visible as an extra border beyond your page and bleed.
✍️ What to Include in the Slug Area
The slug is incredibly versatile. Here’s what designers often include:
| Element | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Project title or version | Helps track revisions |
| Print specs (CMYK, spot) | Communicates print color mode |
| Fold or die lines | Important for packaging or complex layouts |
| Proofing notes | Clarifies client or printer expectations |
| Contact information | Useful for print shop follow-up |
| Barcode or file reference | For logistics, shipping, or tracking |
Important: Anything placed in the slug will be visible only if you check the correct export option.
🖨️ How to Export with the Slug Area
To make sure the slug is visible in your exported PDF:
- Go to File > Export
- Choose Adobe PDF (Print)
- In the export dialog, go to the “Marks and Bleeds” section
- Check “Include Slug Area”
- Click Export
This ensures the printer or recipient sees the slug info—perfect for press sheets or proofs.
🧠 Pro Tips for Using the Slug
- Use layer separation: Keep slug content on a separate layer so you can hide it easily.
- Color-code elements: Use colored type or lines to separate instruction types (e.g., red for die lines, green for contact info).
- Save as part of your template: If you work on similar projects regularly, include slug setup in your document templates.
- Add date/version info for tracking: Helps avoid printing outdated files.
🔍 What’s the Difference Between Slug and Bleed?
| Feature | Slug | Bleed |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | For non-print instructions | For extending artwork beyond the trim line |
| Location | Outside the page AND bleed | Just outside the trim area |
| Visible in Final Print | No (trimmed off) | No (trimmed off) |
| Includes | Text, notes, marks | Backgrounds, images, colors |
✅ Final Thought
The slug in InDesign is your secret workspace for communicating critical production information—without cluttering your actual design. It’s especially valuable when you’re sending files to a printer, collaborating with others, or managing multi-step jobs.
So next time you start a print project, don’t overlook the slug. Use it smartly, and you’ll create more professional, production-ready files every time.
