With edge gilding or coloured edges, the edge of a text block, set of cards or other printed product receives a finish that is immediately visible when the item is closed. While attention often focuses on the cover or contents, the edges offer an additional way to give an edition more character.
Gilt edges have been used on exceptional books for centuries. Today, the possibilities also include silver, metallic shades, solid colours and other creative finishes. This makes the technique suitable for both classical and contemporary designs.
What are gilt or coloured edges?
The term ‘edge’ refers to the trimmed edges of the paper. Applying a colour or metallic finish creates an additional layer of design that is visible when the book is closed.
This technique is used for books, luxury printed matter and other products where finishing and detail play an important role. The book edge becomes part of the design rather than merely a functional part of the product.
Gilt edges
Edge gilding gives an edition a classical, high-quality appearance. The lustre of gold immediately catches the eye and is often used for luxury editions, collectors’ editions and special publications.
Silver and other metallic finishes are also possible. Depending on the design, the result can range from a subtle sheen to a striking mirror effect. This allows the finish to complement both traditional book design and modern concepts.
Gilt edges are regularly combined with other luxury finishes, allowing the different details to reinforce one another.
Coloured edges
Coloured edges offer greater freedom in appearance and design. The book edge can be finished in a wide range of colours, from subtle shades to pronounced contrasts.
A coloured book edge can match a visual identity, reinforce the cover design or deliberately contrast with the rest of the design. Both matt and gloss finishes are possible.
This technique is used not only for books, but also for distinctive business cards. Especially with multilayered cards, coloured edges create a striking detail that is visible as soon as the card is picked up.
Applications of gilt and coloured edges
Gilt and coloured edges are used for a wide range of products where finishing and the tactile quality of materials are important.
Examples include art books, artists’ publications, luxury presentations, corporate gifts and special editions. The technique is also regularly used for distinctive business cards to create an additional point of distinction.
Because the finish remains visible without opening the product, it immediately creates a refined, high-quality appearance.
Printed book edges
Besides gold and colour, an image, pattern or graphic design can also be applied to a book edge. This technique is commonly known as printed edges or edge printing.
When the book is closed, the edge forms a single surface, while the image partially or completely disappears when the pages are opened. This application is used primarily for special editions and creative publications in which the finish plays a prominent role in the design.
