Raw Page Edges
Uncut and Unforgettable
Raw page edges, also known as deckled edges, bring timeless character to your book, evoking the charm of antique volumes. This distinctive finish delivers a handcrafted feel and a sense of history that sets your book apart.
How Are They Created?
In standard book production, once the pages are printed and gathered into signatures, the edges are trimmed using a three-knife trimmer. For raw page edges, this final trimming step is intentionally skipped or modified. They are typically used with uncoated or textured papers to enhance the tactile effect.
Why Add Raw Page Edges?
Raw page edges evoke the look of hand-cut pages from antique books. They give a book a timeless, literary feel that’s perfect for historical fiction or poetry books. Raw page edges also breaka the uniformity of a clean-cut block, adding depth and shadow to the book’s profile.
Helpful Hints
- Because raw page edges affect how the book opens and how the pages align, they must be planned early in the process.
- While raw edges add charm, they can be more susceptible for dust and wear.
- Not all paper stocks are ideal for raw page edges. Uncoated or textured stocks tend to enhance the effect, while coated papers may not produce the same visual depth.
- Raw edges are most ccommonly used with sewn bindings which allow for a more natural, flexible page block. They can also be paired with perfect binding, but the effect may differ depending on the trim and finish.