Expert: Ken Black - 10/12/2009

Question
I am trying to create a cover for my book in InDesign.  The dimensions of the book are 12"(h) x 10.5"(w).  I understand that you would just create it as if it were a spread, but how do I include the spine?  Also how do I get pg. #s to show up, and what if I only want them on one side of the spread or if I don't want them to show on select spreads?

Answer
Hi Shelley,

To include the spine in your document you must first calculate how big of a spine you will be needing.

To calculate the spine width, multiply the number of pages by the paper's caliper or thickness and then add the cover paper's thickness twice, once for the front and once for the back.

Once you have determined what the size of your spine will be, you will need to add it into the overall size of the cover. Use guides to mark where the spine begins and ends.

You may also want to allow yourself at least a 1/4 inch on either side of the spine safety for text. In other words, don't put any text or borders within 1/4 inch of the spine. This can be used as a hinge if the style of the book you are doing requires one. Check with your print shop to find out if this will be necessary.

Depending on the printer or bindery that does the finishing, there may also need to be an additional amount added to compensate for the glue itself.

Most printer shops will figure the spine for you when they are processing your files since paper thickness can vary.

Always check with the print shop that will be printing your work for what specifications they might require. This will save you headaches and job delays.

To have Indesign add page numbers to your pages:

1. In the Pages panel, double-click the master page to which you want to add your page number.

2. Create a new text frame large enough to hold the longest page number and any text you want to appear next to it. Position the text frame where you want the page number to appear.

If your document has facing pages, create separate text frames for the left and right master pages.

3. In the page number text frame, add any text that will come before or after the page number (such as “Page “).
  
4.Position the insertion point where you want the page number to appear, and then choose Type > Insert Special Character > Markers > Current Page Number.
 
5. Apply the master page to the document pages on which you want the page numbering to appear.

If you only want numbers on certain pages or spreads, create another blank master page and apply it to the pages you do not want numbers to appear on.

Thanks,

Ken Black

www.bestprintingonline.com