Module: PUB5003-20 Book Design and Production

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor:  Neil Baber

Module Tutor Contact Details: n.baber@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Print has a long history and, despite predictions of its demise in the early days of digital formats, continues to be a significant part of the book publishing industry. This module will focus on design and print, from mass market paperbacks to high- end, beautifully produced illustrated books, special editions, gift and novelty books. Exploring manufacturing and design choices and methods, the module will put contemporary book design, typography and manufacture in the context of printing and design history and the application of typography to designed.

You will learn about working with printers and the possibilities of commercial printing e.g. paper engineering, paper stock, fabrics, covers, endpapers, die cutting, varnishes, embossing and debossing. You will also be introduced to handmade bookmaking techniques to put the wider commercial practices in context. Picture use and the use of images and picture research will also be covered in this module.

You will work on an independent project to conceive a new book idea based on the creative re-purposing of backlist content in any genre or category. You will employ your knowledge of the possibilities of book production, typography, design and print to prepare mock-ups and samples of your book idea.

2. Outline syllabus: 

•  Book design history

•  Printing and production, digital and litho

•  Book binding

•  Paper stock, covers, endpapers, fabric

•  Special finishes: die cutting, embossing and debossing, laminate finishes and spot varnishes

•  Picture research

3. Teaching and learning activities: 

The module will be taught through lectures, class discussions, guided independent and group work, and lab- based workshops and demos introducing both digital and hand-making skills (e.g. bookbinding).

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Presentation (equivalent of 1,000 words)

• % Weighting: 20%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Personal Project (equivalent of 4,000 words)

• % Weighting: 80%