How to create a full-bleed document template

How to create a full-bleed document template

I've been going out of my mind trying to get our letterhead design converted to a zdoc template for our users.  The letterhead, and other docs like reports covers, etc., are a full-bleed design, meaning the design elements run through the margins and right up to the edge of the page.

In some cases the elements show up in the final PDFs, in some cases they dissappear.  In all cases its maddening trying to fine tune the position of these design elements in the Writer interface.  I need help please!  How can this be accomplished?  I cannot be the only one to attempt this.

Attached is a sample of what i've created in Writer, but if i try and nudge the footer graphic down (because theres a little white space at the bottom) then the graphic dissappears entirely next time i export to PDF.