How booklets are put together
The most common booklet is saddle-stitched: printed sheets are folded and stapled through the spine. Because each sheet makes four pages, the page count must be a multiple of four (8, 12, 16 and so on). If your document has 14 pages, plan for 16 and use the extras for notes or a back cover.
- A5 booklets suit programmes and hand-outs.
- A4 booklets suit catalogues, reports and manuals.
Cover options, paper weights and binding choices show when you configure the product. Prices show online or are quoted. Browse Overnight Booklets.
Supplying booklet files
- Supply one PDF with single pages in reading order: front cover, inside front, page 1, and so on.
- Do not arrange pages into printer's spreads; we do that.
- Add 3mm bleed on every page where colour runs to the edge.
- Keep text well clear of the spine and outside edges.
- Check the page count is a multiple of four.
More in our Artwork Guidelines.
Overnight considerations
Page count and quantity both affect whether a booklet fits into one night's production. Check the tiers offered for your configuration. If Overnight is available, the order, approved artwork and cleared payment must be in by 1:00 PM.
Tiers: Economy (about 5 working days, 10% less), Standard (about 3 working days, listed price), Express (next working day, +20%), Same-day for eligible items (by 09:00, +30%) and Overnight for eligible items (by 1:00 PM, +40%). For very large runs, consider printing a small batch overnight to cover tomorrow and the remainder on Standard.
Typical booklet jobs
- Conference and event programmes; see conference pack printing.
- Funeral orders of service; see funeral programme printing.
- Training material and manuals; see manual and report printing.
- Product catalogues for a trade show or sales visit.
