Design guidelines etc.

Design guidelines etc.

Gutter Image

The Bookmakers Basics

To get started on the right track, please download this summary of services and requirements:

Services and Specs PDF
(control click or right click and then save)

 

Cover Material

Edition One stocks a standard set of high quality book cloth colors. Our stock changes from time to time, and we'll update this page as new options arrive. Custom book cloth can be ordered for any project of 25 or more books. Our standard options are displayed here.

Printed covers are also available. We can print pretty much any design on the cover. Printed covers are either matte or gloss laminated.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Image Adjustment

This is a big topic, and the information here is intended to be basic. We need a minimum resolution of 300dpi to print your images properly. Additionally, its best if you convert your images to Adobe 1998 color space - we can also do this for you. Image Basics:

  • 300 DPI or better at desired print size
  • Adobe 1998 Color Space
  • TIFF files are best, or High Quality JPEG
  • No Layers please (for final images)
  • 16 bit or 8 bit - doesn't really matter
  • Grayscale often works great for B&W

Adobe Photoshop is the standard image editing tool. You should learn it, and own it. Or, just hire us to work with your images...

 

Layout and Design Concerns

When designing your own book, you need to be sure to set your document up properly from the start. Some pointers are listed below.

Bleeds:

We use 1/8" bleeds. This means that you should make sure that any images and graphics you want to run full-bleed (right to the edge of the page), extend at lease 1/8" too far. We'll cut that part off, ensuring that your book doesn't have a white sliver of paper at the edges. See the graphic to the right for an illustration.

 

The Gutter:

The Gutter is that bit in the middle between the pages. Edition One can print your image right across it if you like. Using your layout application, just set your image or graphic as you want it on both pages. When you export the file to a PDF, it will be split up properly.

 

Black:

Black is not just black in the printing world. If you want a true black, choose 'registration' or 'true black' from your color swatches.

 

Software:

We suggest Adobe InDesign for top-end design. Quark is also a great layout program. Apple's Aperture 2 is a great option, allowing the user to make custom book designs with ease!