Essays, process notes, editorial behind-the-scenes and reflections on literature, design, creation and culture.
43 articlesWhat is the minimum safety margin for printing books in offset and POD? Understand the difference between bleed, safe zone and gutter, and the values that…
Portrait, square or landscape — which book format works best for each genre? Understand what the format communicates, the usual sizes for novels, poetry, children's, art…
How many fonts should a book have? Why one or two type families are enough for most projects, when a third is justified, and how to…
Who is responsible for the image and typeface rights used on book covers? Understand the division of responsibilities between designer, publisher and author, what needs to…
Who decides the visual standard of a book series — the designer, the editor or the author? Understand each one's role, how the decision happens in…
Who has the final say over a book cover with co-authors or published by a publisher? Understand what the contract usually says, how approval works in…
Who should review the layout file before printing? Understand the four reviews a book needs — text, layout, technical and proof — and who is responsible…