How do I build a case bound cover file?

Building a case bound wrap cover file requires precise measurements across multiple panels. Your back board, spine, and front board must be laid out as a single flat file at the correct dimensions for your specific project specs. Bradford & Bigelow's case bound wrap cover layout template calculates those dimensions automatically, so you can build your file with confidence.

What the template does
The template is a fillable PDF that calculates your total wrap width and wrap height automatically once you enter your project specs. It outputs the exact flat file dimensions you need including board width, board height, spine width, and hinge zones with all measurements calculated and labeled so you know exactly how to set up your document.

What you'll need before you start
Before opening the template, have the following confirmed:

• Trim size (width × height)
• Page count
• PPI for your paper stock —contact B&B if you don't have this

How to use the template

1. Download the case bound wrap cover layout template below
2. Open it in Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Acrobat Reader. Do not open in a browser or third-party PDF viewer, as the auto-calculating fields require Acrobat to function correctly
3. Enter your PPI, page count, and trim size in the fields provided
4. The template will calculate your bulk (spine width), board dimensions, hinge zones, total wrap width, and total wrap height automatically
5. Use the output dimensions to set up your cover document in your design application
6. Build your cover art within the indicated boundaries, keeping critical content within the safe zone and extending background elements to the bleed edge

Understanding the wrap cover panels
A case bound wrap cover laid flat consists of the following panels from left to right:

• Back board — the back cover at board width
• Hinge — 0.4375" zone on each side of the spine where the cover flexes when the book opens; avoid placing critical content here
• Spine — calculated automatically based on your page count and PPI
• Hinge — 0.4375" on the front board side
• Front board — the front cover at board width

Setting up your cover file
Once you have your dimensions from the template, set up a new document in your design application at the calculated total wrap width and total wrap height. Your document should include:

• 0.125" bleed on all outer edges
• Spine panel centered between the front and back boards at the calculated bulk width
• Hinge zones (0.4375" on each side of the spine) kept clear of critical text and design elements
• All important content — title, author name, spine text, barcode — kept well inside the safe zone

Downloading the template
Enter your information below to download Bradford & Bigelow's fillable cover layout template for case bound books. We'll also send you a copy by email so you can access it any time.

Need help?
If you have questions about your cover setup or want our prepress team to review your file before submission, contact us here.