Yearbook pages fall in numerical sequence when you look at the finished book. They are NOT printed in that sequence. Thankfully, you do need to worry about the mechanics of preparing and submitting pages according to how your publisher prints the pages (unless your book consists of pages printed in both black and white and color). It is always educational to learn about the printing process, however, so the following information is provided to assist your understanding.
Pages fall in numerical sequence once both sides of the large sheet of paper are printed, folded, and trimmed. Yearbooks are printed on large sheets that allow 8 pages to be printed at the same time on both sides of the paper. These large sheets are called signatures. Only two pages truly face each other on a signature. This is known as a “natural spread”. This would be the best place to use photos that spread across the gutter (the center of the book), since you have a natural fold. Anywhere else, the photos are trimmed and then printed apart and rejoined after the fold. It may be difficult to make sure all images match nicely as they come together where the book is bound (at the gutter).
Each set of sixteen pages is called a signature, while each side of the printed sheet (signature) is called a multiple or flat. When you plan your yearbook, if it is Smyth sewn, you do so in 16-page signatures. If your book is bound as a Side-sewn yearbook or a Saddle-stapled or Perfect-bound book, you can purchase the book in 4-page spreads.
Survival Tip:
The key to your book being submitted on time to the yearbook plant is developing
and meeting your own internal milestones so you can meet your publisher’s deadline.
Once milestones are given to your staff, review progress on a weekly basis. Coordinate milestones with events on your school calendar.