How to supply covers and jackets to MPG Biddles

Preparing covers and jackets for printing at MPG Biddles

Cover and jacket file formats

Our preferred format for cover and jacket files is a print ready PDF. We can accept application file created in Adobe InDesign, QuarkXPress or Pagemaker (up to version 6.5) but please note there will be charge to convert these to a print ready PDF. If you are sending application files then please remember to send us any font or image files which should be at least 300 dpi and saved as CMYK.

Job option settings for Acrobat Distiller 7

PC: Using Winzip or a similar package extract the distiller job options file to the following folder on your computer C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat 7.0\Distillr\Settings
Mac: Using StuffIt extract the Distiller job options file to the Adobe Distiller folder in your Applications folder.

Distiller 7 settings for all cover files

Calculating spine widths

If you need help calculating a spine bulk then please use our Spine Width Calculator which has been specifically written for our stock papers. To use the calculator please click on the Spine Width Calculator link on the right-hand menu under Quick Links and choose either Paperback or Hardback.

If you need help converting a 10 digit ISBN to 13 digits then please use our ISBN converter. To use the converter please click on the 10 to 13 digit ISBN converter link on the right-hand menu under Quick Links..

Paperback cover dimensions

The paperback cover should be the same size as the trim (book) size (no flaps), adding 3mm bleed all round as indicated in diagram below. To download this diagram, please click here

If we are making and inserting a barcode on your behalf then please leave a white box on the back of approx 35mm wide by 25mm high.

Hardback book jacket dimensions

Add a total of 6mm to the trim (book) size to allow for board (3mm) and bleed (3mm) as shown in the diagram below. Add a minimum of 4mm wrap around board on to flap (if using our Spine Width calculator please be aware that this has been allowed for already in the calculation). Add flap size - we would suggest 80 to 85mm.
To download the diagram below, please click here

If we are making and inserting a barcode on your behalf then please leave a white box on the back of approx 35mm wide by 25mm high.

If you are supplying artwork for us to make a brass from please supply this as a print ready PDF file.

Hardback PPC (Printed Paper Case) dimensions

Add 3mm to the trim (book) size to allow overhang of pages
Add extra 17mm to allow for fold around the cover board
Add 4mm to spine width to allow for boards (if using our Spine Width calculator please be aware that this has been allowed for already in the calculation)

To download the above diagram, please click here

Quick links

Cover and jacket terms explained

What is the difference between a cover and a jacket?

A cover is used on a paperback and a jacket (also known as a dust jacket) goes around a hardback. Underneath the jacket will be a 'cloth' finish typically with gold or silver lettering on the spine or front or both.

What is a PPC?

A PPC (printed paper case) is used on a hardback and it is when the jacket is physically glued to the book so that it cannot be removed.

What is a brass?

A device made of zinc which is used to stamp the foil lettering on to the 'cloth' finish on a hardback typically on the spine, front or both.

What is lamination?

This process coats the cover or jacket with an extremely thin layer of either glossy or matt plastic which provides a highly professional, extra smooth finish, as well as protecting the paper or card underneath.

We offer gloss and matt lamination.

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covers or jackets for printing at Biddles


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