BOOK SPECIFICATION
Format · Extent · Binding · Orientation
254 × 304.8 mm · 320 pages + 8 pages endpapers · Section-sewn square-spine hardcover with dust jacket · Portrait
COVER
Material · GSM · Board · Printing · Finishing
Material: Black cotton book cloth · Board: 3 mm greyboard with 3 mm spine board · Printing: None · Finishing: Holographic foil stamping
TEXT BLOCK
Paper · GSM · Color · Printing Method
Paper: Matte coated art paper · GSM: 157 gsm · Color: CMYK · Printing Method: H-UV offset printing
ENDPAPERS
Material · GSM · Printing · Attachment
Material: Uncoated paper · GSM: 140 gsm · Printing: CMYK H-UV offset printing · Attachment: Glued endpapers
OTHER COMPONENTS
Dust Jacket · Slipcase · Inserts · Edges
Dust Jacket: 157 gsm coated art paper, CMYK + PMS 10226 C, anti-scratch matte lamination, 101.6 mm flaps · Headbands: Fabric headbands · Packaging: Individually wrapped in biodegradable shrink film
PRODUCTION NOTES
Challenge 1: Color Shift Risks and Heavy Ink Coverage Across Cross-Page Images
The Challenge
The publication features dense, continuous-tone artwork and cross-page spreads of intricate natural specimens. Over-inking can cause color shifting across signatures, while previous press runs were noted as slightly heavy. Balancing accurate color matching to historical sample archives without causing ink set-off or page misalignment poses a significant technical risk.
Our Solution
We reinforced the case using 350gsm white cardstock for the front and back panels and 300gsm specialized paper for the spine. During the casing-in process, we strictly controlled the paper grain direction and ensured the hinge areas were perfectly glued without any glue seepage. Rigorous post-assembly QC tests were implemented to verify that the book block was securely anchored within the hollow spine and would not drop out.
Challenge 2: Adhesion Failure and Distortion During Textile Foil Stamping
The Challenge
Applying intricate foil stamping directly onto high-count cotton cloth mounted over a thick 3.0mm greyboard introduces high risks of uneven heat transfer, foil cracking, or spine misalignment due to fabric grain resistance.
Our Solution
Implemented precise pre-case foil stamping using specialized laser foil (212-11) before final case-making. The grain directions of the 3.0mm rigid greyboard and cotton fabric were strictly aligned to ensure smooth temperature application, crisp foil edges, and long-term structural durability.
Challenge 3: Surface Scuffing on Dark Covers and Packaging Compliance
The Challenge
Dark matte dust jackets are highly susceptible to scuffing, scratches, and fingerprinting during binding and international shipping. Additionally, modern packaging requirements demand eco-friendly protection without compromising durability.
Our Solution
Applied an anti-scratch matte film to the dust jacket to provide superior abrasion resistance during production and handling. To meet international environmental standards, each finished copy was individually sealed in biodegradable shrink-wrap film, ensuring protection against moisture and scuffing throughout transit.