KDP cover setup · Updated 2026-05-30
KDP cover template guide
Use a KDP cover template or SVG/PNG guide layer to set up paperback bleed, trim, spine, barcode area, and safe zones.
What a cover template should show
A useful paperback cover template shows the full file size, trim boundaries, spine area, bleed, and barcode planning area. KDP also provides downloadable cover templates from its official cover calculator.
This site generates lightweight SVG and PNG guide layers for planning. Use them as a design reference, then verify against the official KDP template and upload preview before publishing.
- Full cover file size including bleed.
- Back cover, spine, and front cover areas.
- Trim line and bleed line.
- Barcode planning area.
- Canvas pixel size for the selected PPI.
Production workflow checklist
Use the generated guide as a setup layer, not as finished artwork. The working file should be created at the calculated full cover size, then exported as a single PDF after guide layers are hidden or removed.
| Step | What to verify |
|---|---|
| 1. Calculate dimensions | Trim, page count, paper type, bleed, and spine |
| 2. Create canvas | Full cover size including bleed |
| 3. Add guide layer | Back, spine, front, trim, bleed, safe zone, barcode |
| 4. Export final PDF | One continuous cover without visible guide lines |
Do not design from a screenshot
A browser preview explains the layout, but a screenshot of the preview is not a production file. Use the calculated dimensions and guide downloads to create your actual cover canvas.