Basic list of characteristics/specifications
Here is a list with the mandatory basics – you will need to decide on and document.
Page count & structure
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Total pages Pages not leaves. Include the number of printed pages.
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Sections: If the interior is not homogenous i.e sections differ text vs colour pages, inserts, endpapers
Paper stock
For each component (text, cover, endpapers, etc.):
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Paper type: coated / uncoated / recycled / specialty
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Finish: gloss, satin, silk, matte
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Weight: gsm e.g. 100 gsm gloss
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Brand or equivalent (optional but helpful)
Colour specifications
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Colour mode: CMYK / Pantone / mixed
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Special inks: Pantone, metallics, white ink
Binding & finishing
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Binding type: perfect (PUR/EVA), saddle stitch, casebound, wire-o
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Trim: square, rounded corners
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Cover lamination: matte / gloss / soft-touch
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Embellishments e.g. Foil / emboss / deboss / spot UV
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Scoring: especially for heavy covers
Proofing
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Proof type: soft proof (an electronic file)/ hard copy (an actual printed example)/ press proof
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Number of proofing rounds included
Packing & delivery
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Packing: cartons, shrink-wrap, palletised
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Carton quantity limits related to weight: important for OH & S and unloading and storage of cartons A reasonable carton weight might be around 12kg.
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Delivery address
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Delivery date / deadline
