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Sprayed Edges

Sprayed Edges

Friesens is excited to bring a new specialty enhancement to our offerings…sprayed edges!

The newest addition to our printing capabilities at Friesens is the Digi B Edge Printing Machine from Durrer.  This machine uses an inkjet head to print in four process colours on the edges of your book, allowing you to have vibrant colour images, intricate line work, and almost any design you can imagine!

Maybe it’s a special edition, a first printing that will become a collector’s item, or you want to highlight what’s inside the book…sprayed edges will enhance the overall aesthetic appeal and uniqueness of your book, making it a true standout piece on any shelf. Whether you’re aiming for a bold statement or a subtle touch of elegance, this finishing touch adds a layer of sophistication and personalization that readers and collectors will cherish.

We know that you’ll have questions about this new technology.  Below we have a list of some Frequently Asked Questions, or you can reach out to your Friesens Sales Representative for more information.

Sprayed Edges Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much extra time will this add?

A: Additional time depends on the load and size of the book. Your Friesens team will help you determine a schedule that fits your project requirements.

Q: What factors will affect the final cost?

A: The cost is mainly influenced by three factors: the thickness of the book, the type of binding, and the amount of ink used.

Q: Does the pricing change from softcover to hardcover?

A: The price for a softcover book and a hardcover book with the same spine thickness is the same cost.  However, the type of binding can affect the final cost.

Q: Is it possible to apply sprayed edges on softcover books with flaps?

A: Yes, it is possible, but the design needs testing before finalizing. Over-spray can occur, where some ink may get onto the flaps. We wipe it off immediately, but slight discoloration may still show, especially on lighter covers.

Q: Is it possible to apply sprayed edges on softcover books with an uneven/ragged foredge?

A: Yes, it’s possible, but the design would need to be tested prior to finalizing the project.

Q: Can sprayed edges be used on books with rounded corners?

A: Absolutely!  The designer will need to take this into account when completing the final design.

Q: Can I use PMS colours?

A: No, PMS ink is not available.  This machine will print black or 4-process colours.

Q: Are the books sprayed before or after the cover goes on?

A:  It depends on the type of book.  A softcover book will be sprayed after the book binding is complete.  Hardcover perfect-bound books will be sprayed after the book blocks are completed on the perfect binder.  Hardcover sewn books will be taken off the encaser after the 3-knife trimmer, sprayed, and then put back on the encaser.

Q: Can I add sprayed edges to a book with bleeds?

A:  Yes, but the ink from the bleeds can affect the sprayed edges, leading to a less uniform appearance.

Q: Can you stain the edges of a book?

A: Yes, you can stain the edges of a book with a solid color. However, some colors, like black, may appear washed out after the first application. To achieve a dark, rich color, a second pass may be necessary.

Q: What other specifications do I need to keep in mind when designing my sprayed edge?

A:  The final design should be supplied as a PDF.  The minimum size that can be produced is 78 x 78mm (3-1/16″ x 3-1/16″) and the maximum size is 360 x 360mm (14-1/8″ x 14-1/8″).  It’s important to remember that you will need one PDF for each edge that will be printed.  For example, for a book that will have the top, bottom, and foredge printed you will need to supply three separate PDFs.