Supplying files for hardback (casebound) books requires a specific structure to ensure the cover and internal pages (inners) align perfectly during the binding process. Please follow these technical requirements for a seamless production workflow.

Example File Setup

Casebound books must be supplied as two separate PDF files. This allows our prepress team to process the cover and the internal block through different production lines.

PDF 1 (The Cover): This must be supplied as a single spread, including the back cover, spine, and front cover in one continuous layout.

PDF 2 (The Inners): All remaining internal pages should be supplied in a single multi-page PDF in the correct reading order. These pages need to be 'single pages'.

Page Specifications

To ensure the book block can be folded and bound correctly, please adhere to these pagination rules:

Divisibility: Casebound books must have an even number of inner pages in order to be bound correctly. Examples: 32 pages. 60 pages. 500 pages. Etc.

Reading Order: Supply your internal pages in order as 'single pages' (Page 1, Page 2, Page 3, etc.) rather than as printer spreads.

Example: For a 32-page booklet, you would supply:

1. Cover: 1 spread (Back + Spine + Front).
2. Inners: 30 pages (All remaining internal pages).

Supplying Cover Spreads & Spine Width

The cover of a hardback book is a "wrap-around" spread. Precision in your export settings is critical.

InDesign Export: When exporting your cover from Adobe InDesign, you must select "Spreads" to ensure the front, spine, and back form one continuous layout.

Spine Calculation: Your spine width must be accurately calculated based on your specific page count and paper thickness. If the spine width is incorrect, the cover will not fit the book block. Our product page automatically calculates your spine with when you enter the page count on the product configurator.

Safe Margin: Avoid placing any text within 10mm of the inner edge (the area where the page meets the spine) to ensure maximum readability and prevent text from disappearing into the "gutter."

Need more help? Explore our additional support guides for expert advice on artwork setup, print file preparation, bleed and crop marks, colour setup, large format artwork and troubleshooting common print file issues.

Our support guides also cover paper stock selection, premium print finishes including spot UV and Scodix, preparing print-ready artwork and understanding the best setup for a wide range of printed products.

Before ordering, you can also use our artwork technical check tool to identify common artwork problems, including low resolution images, missing bleed, incorrect dimensions and RGB colour profiles.

You can also browse our full range of print products, including banners, business cards, flyers, posters and large format printing solutions.