The term “K number” or “fold number” in printing and binding refers to how many layouts (or cuts) can be made from a large parent sheet. The final product made from one of those sections is what we refer to as a specific K size.
For example, a commonly used A5 notebook, also known as a 25K notebook, measures approximately 15 x 21 cm. This means it can be cut 25 times from a full sheet measuring 31″ x 43″.
However, when using a parent sheet of 25″ x 35″, only 16 layouts can be made, which is why it’s called 16K in that system.
As a result, even if two notebooks are both labeled as 25K or 16K, their final dimensions may vary depending on the original paper size used by each manufacturer.
If you’d like to learn more about notebook sizes or paper dimensions, you can refer to the article:
Paper Size Guide: B3, A4, B5, 8K, 16K — Understand common formats at a glance with this comparison chart!
In printing, terms like gang-run printing, single-color printing, two-color printing, four-color printing, and dedicated plate printing are commonly used. Below is a general explanation of how to choose the right printing method.
Standard color printing uses the CMYK model, also known as four-color printing. This method covers most color printing needs. However, if special colors like gold or silver are required—colors outside the CMYK range—then spot color printing is necessary.
CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (black). Each color value can range from 0 to 100. A separate printing plate must be made for each color used, so the more colors in the design, the more plates are needed, which means higher basic production costs.
Single-color printing typically refers to using only black (K value), while two-color printing uses any two color values. Regardless of how many colors are used, the total ink value in the file should not exceed 250, as exceeding this may cause drying issues and ink show-through.
In printing, the basic processing unit is “per thousand impressions per color” (called 色令/仟車). In simple terms, each color printed 1,000 times has a base cost. Additional costs include plate-making and post-press processing. If the quantity is under 1,000, the unit cost will be relatively higher due to fixed costs.
For small print runs, gang-run printing is recommended. This method combines your print job with others on the same sheet, reducing the overall cost. However, it may result in slight color deviations, typically around 10%, which is considered normal.
If your final product requires precise color matching, it is recommended to use dedicated plate printing. You should conduct an on-site press check during the initial print run to match and confirm colors before full production begins. This ensures the final output meets expectations as closely as possible.
In printing, you may often encounter terms like gang-run printing, single-color printing, two-color printing, four-color printing, and custom plate printing. Below is a straightforward explanation to help you choose the right printing method.
Standard printing typically uses CMYK four-color process, which covers most full-color printing needs. This is known as four-color printing. When special colors like gold or silver are needed—colors that CMYK cannot reproduce—spot color printing is required.
CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). Each of the four colors has values ranging from 0 to 100. A separate plate is required for each color used. The more colors involved, the more plates are needed, which increases the base production cost.
Single-color printing usually refers to black only (K value). Two-color printing refers to any two selected color channels. Regardless of the number of colors, it is important that the total ink coverage does not exceed 250. Exceeding this may cause ink drying issues and lead to show-through or smudging.
In printing, the standard processing unit is often measured as “per 1,000 impressions per color.” This means there is a base price for printing each color 1,000 times. Additional charges such as plate fees and finishing costs also apply. For orders under 1,000 pieces, the unit cost increases because fixed setup costs are spread over fewer items.
For small-volume orders, gang-run printing is recommended. This method places multiple print jobs on the same plate to reduce overall costs. However, slight color deviation (around 10%) is common and acceptable for this method.
If accurate color matching is critical, it’s best to use custom plate printing. In such cases, attending the press check during setup is highly recommended to ensure color accuracy before full production begins.
There are thousands of types of paper to choose from. For advertising pages, we recommend coated paper for better readability, while for inner pages, we suggest using uncoated woodfree paper, which is more suitable for writing.
Paper is measured in reams, and even if two paper types have the same name and weight, the texture and feel may vary depending on the paper manufacturer.
Leatai offers paper samples from various suppliers. You can choose in person to create a truly unique product tailored to your needs.
If you’d like to learn more about paper options or the customization process,
you can refer to our service section: Custom Notebook Printing & Production Services.
For free one-on-one consultation via LINE, add us with Line ID: @mqh0793i
If you are preparing your own print files, please pay attention to the following key points:
Paper is generally printed using methods such as gang-run printing, single-color printing, or four-color (CMYK) printing. Leather materials, on the other hand, are typically printed using digital printing or inkjet printing. This difference is due to the distinct material properties of paper and leather, which require different processing techniques to achieve proper printing results. As a result of these different printing methods, the color rendering on each material also varies accordingly.
When paper mills ship large sheets, they use “ream” as the basic unit. One ream equals 500 sheets, and each sheet is in a full-size format such as full sheet, Kiku full, or half sheet. Paper mills do not supply paper in pre-cut sizes like A5 or B5.
Therefore, when producing a certain number of notebooks, it often requires a specific number of reams of large paper to calculate the raw material based on the most fundamental supply unit. Other materials and processing steps also have their own minimum quantity thresholds. If these thresholds are not met, basic setup costs still apply. That’s why ordering just a few dozen notebooks is often not cost-effective for the customer, and a minimum order quantity is recommended.
Learn more: Custom Notebook Services – Notebook Manufacturing, Printing, and Small-Batch Customization Specialists.
Before mass production, if a sample is required to confirm the product details, the order quantity must be at least 1,000 units. A sampling fee will be charged, based on actual conditions, typically around NT$3,000, and limited to one round. The sample will be a digital mock-up and not a press-printed version.
Sampling takes approximately 7 to 15 days. Once approved, the production lead time will begin.
Because a business planner is a cross-disciplinary product, it can be extended to include handover kits for property or vehicles, or even gift boxes. In terms of craftsmanship, it covers both paper-based products and business leather goods.
