THE INSET LABEL: TURN YOUR COVER INTO A SHOWCASE
An inset label is an image printed separately, then mounted into a recess in the cover.
A traditional finish that gives a hardback the look of a precious, hand-made object.
An image set into the cover
The cover — often cloth, fine art paper, leatherette or another synthetic material — is given a shallow recess into which the printed label is mounted.
The whole is pressed so that the join is perfectly flat.
The label can be rectangular, square or die-cut to shape.
When the cover becomes a frame
The inset label makes it possible to combine two materials: the texture of a cloth or a fine art paper for the cover, and the print quality of a coated paper for the image.
It also makes it possible to carry a printed image on a cover whose covering material cannot be printed.
It is the ideal solution when the cover image must be reproduced precisely — a work of art, a photograph, a portrait — on a case whose character and material you want to show off.
The inset label at a glance
- Image printed separately, mounted into a recess in the cover.
- Rectangular, square or die-cut to shape.
- Usually on cloth, fine art paper or leatherette covers.
- Gives the book a precious, hand-made feel.
- Carries a faithful reproduction of an image on a textured or unprintable cover.
- Reserved for hardcover bindings.
Which books is it for?
Art books and artists' monographs, art and photography books, heritage and regional works, prestige editions, corporate and anniversary books, premium comics and graphic novels.
Frequently asked questions
What is a recessed vignette?
A well is formed in the cover board, and a separately printed image is glued into it.
It is framed by the relief of the board, which showcases it like a painting in its frame.
Which bindings allow it?
Case bindings, and Integra bindings depending on the thickness of the cover.
A conventional soft cover does not offer the material needed to form the well.
How large can the vignette be?
It depends on the size of the book: a margin of board must remain around the well so that the cover stays rigid and the gluing is clean.
We confirm the dimensions on the cover template.
Can it be combined with other finishes?
Yes: a recessed label on a cloth board with a gold-foiled title is, for instance, a classic combination on art books and prestige editions.
As with debossing, embossing and hot foil stamping, we carry out this finish in house, in our own workshops.
Tell us about your project to receive a quote.