Notebook Cover Checklist: 20 Checks Before You Send to Print
A reprint is the most expensive way to find a typo. One missed check can mean thousands of covers printed wrong.
This notebook cover checklist gives you 20 checks to run before you send a file to the printer. Print it, tick it and keep it with the job. Values such as bleed and margins differ by printer, so confirm yours.
How to use the notebook cover checklist
Run it on the final file, not an early draft. Have a second person do it too. Fresh eyes catch mistakes the maker no longer sees.
A. Size and layout
- Page size matches the cover. Confirm the trim size. See notebook cover sizes in India.
- Bleed is set. Many printers ask for about 3 mm. Verify with yours.
- Backgrounds reach the bleed edge. No white slivers at the edge.
- Important content is inside the safe margin. Commonly 3 to 5 mm inside the trim.
- Spine and wrap areas are right if it is a full wrap or has a spine.
- Binding areas are clear. Keep text away from spiral holes and folds. See spiral notebook cover design.
B. Colour
- Colour mode matches the printer's request. Often CMYK. See CMYK vs RGB.
- No stray RGB or spot colours unless intended.
- Rich black and text black are right. Small text should not use a four-colour black that may misregister.
- Colours are checked on a proof, not only on screen.
C. Text and fonts
- Spelling is checked by a person, in every language. See regional language covers.
- Text is converted to curves, and an editable master is saved. See notebook cover fonts.
- Smallest text is readable in print.
- Name boxes and labels are the right size for handwriting.
D. Images and effects
- Images are high resolution, commonly 300 dpi at final size. Verify with your printer.
- No low-quality or stretched images.
- Transparency and effects print as expected. Check shadows and glows on a proof.
- Special finish layers are set up, such as spot UV or foil. See notebook cover finishes.
E. Files and approval
- File type and name are right, and extra objects are removed from the page. See notebook cover CDR file.
- A proof is approved in writing by the right person. See notebook cover proof.
Quick version for the desk
| Area | One-line check |
|---|---|
| Size | Trim, bleed and safe margin set |
| Colour | Mode right, proof seen |
| Text | Spelling checked, curves done |
| Images | Sharp and large enough |
| Finish | Layers ready |
| Sign-off | Proof approved |
Common reasons for reprints
- A spelling or name error
- Content cut off at the edge
- Colour surprise
- Low-resolution image
- Wrong file or old version sent
Make it a habit
Keep one checklist per job, sign it and file it. After a mistake, add a new line. Over time, it becomes your own shop's list.
Common questions
Who should run the checklist? The designer first, then someone else.
Is a checklist enough without a proof? No. A proof catches what a checklist cannot.
Can my printer check the file? Many do a basic check, but responsibility is shared. Do your own.
Final thought
Twenty checks take minutes. A reprint takes weeks and money.
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