Summary of "D Todo - ¿Cómo se hace un libro? (05/06/2018)"

Summary of “D Todo - ¿Cómo se hace un libro? (05/06/2018)”

This video explores the history, production process, types, and care of books, as well as the concept of facsimile editions of valuable old manuscripts. It combines historical context with a detailed, step-by-step explanation of how modern books are made, featuring interviews and demonstrations from experts.

Main Ideas and Concepts

1. Historical Evolution of Books

The first books were clay tablets with drawings made by an awl.
Different civilizations used materials like parchment or animal skins.
The modern form of the book emerged after a long historical evolution.
The Industrial Revolution mechanized book production, making books widely accessible.

2. Book Sizes and Paper Types

Books are classified by size: half-letter, medium legal, and legal size.
- Half-letter size: Common for novels and stories; portable.
- Medium legal size: Used for institutional/business books, often colorful.
- Legal size: Larger, less common, used for special purposes like comics.
Paper types vary based on the book’s needs:
- Coated paper for photo-rich books to enhance image quality.
- Recycled paper for ecological options.
- Special papers (e.g., cream or watermarked) for aesthetics or specific effects.
Book sizes can be customized but irregular sizes may increase paper waste and cost.

3. Book Covers and Finishes

Hardcover books require a different production process and are more durable.
Special editions may include leather covers, cases (boxes), or dust jackets (called “shirts” or “dj’s”).
Lamination and varnishes (matte or glossy) affect the book’s look and feel.
Ink choices include black, red, or color printing depending on design needs.

4. Book Production Process

Initial phase: Authors often submit manuscripts in Word, but professional editorial design and formatting are crucial for quality.
Digital layout: Pages are arranged digitally in a specific order (imposed) so that when printed and folded, the pages appear in correct sequence.
Plate creation (prepress):
- Digital files are transferred to aluminum plates using high-speed lasers.
- Plates act as molds for printing, similar to Gutenberg’s wooden molds but modernized.
Printing:
- Large sheets of paper receive ink from plates via printing presses.
- Both sides of the sheet are printed simultaneously.
Folding:
- Printed sheets are folded into “chapels” (signatures), each containing multiple pages.
- Folding follows precise rules to ensure correct page order.
Binding:
- Folded chapels are glued together using special adhesives.
- Binding methods ensure durability and flexibility.
Cutting:
- The book’s edges (head, foot, and fore-edge) are trimmed using a three-blade guillotine cutter.
- Proper margins and allowances must be considered during design to avoid cutting text.
Final product:
- Books are packaged, sometimes individually wrapped in plastic, ready for distribution.

5. Book Care Tips

Dust damages books; using a dust cover or keeping books dust-free is recommended.
Books should be handled gently; well-made books open easily without damage.
Modern adhesives do not crystallize or degrade quickly, but humidity should still be avoided.
Books should be used, read, lent, and cared for to keep them “alive.”

6. Facsimile Editions

Facsimiles are exact reproductions of old, valuable documents (books, manuscripts).
Production is complex and costly, requiring:
- Permission from institutions guarding originals.
- Photomechanical color selection using lasers and scanners.
- Printing on special materials like parchment or vellum.
- Artisanal binding with leather, ribs, boards, and metallic accessories.
Facsimiles allow wider access to rare works without risking originals.
Examples include Mayan codices, Columbus’s Book of Prophecies, and other historical European bibliographic treasures.
UNESCO has supported facsimile projects since 1972.

7. Cultural Importance of Books

Despite digital media dominance, books remain vital for transmitting knowledge and experiences.
Books continue to be cherished cultural objects.

Detailed Methodology / Instructions for Modern Book Production

Manuscript Preparation
- Authors submit text, usually in Word.
- Editorial design formats the manuscript for legibility and professional presentation.
Digital Layout and Imposition
- Pages are arranged digitally in imposed order for printing.
- The file is prepared for transfer to printing plates.
Plate Making (Prepress)
- Aluminum plates are created by laser exposure.
- Plates serve as molds for the printing press.
Printing
- Large sheets of paper are fed into the printing press.
- Ink is applied on both sides using the plates.
- Sheets emerge with printed pages arranged for folding.
Folding
- Printed sheets are folded into signatures (chapels).
- Folding is precise to maintain page order.
Binding
- Signatures are glued together using special adhesives.
- The book block is assembled and attached to the cover.
Cutting
- The three edges of the book are trimmed with a guillotine cutter.
- Margins are carefully planned to avoid cutting text.
Final Touches
- Covers, dust jackets, and packaging are applied.
- Books are wrapped and prepared for distribution.

Speakers / Sources Featured

Alexia – Host and narrator guiding the audience through the process.
Erika – Expert explaining book sizes, paper types, and book classifications.
Alfonso – Specialist demonstrating the production process, including digital layout, plate making, printing, folding, binding, and cutting.
Ricardo – Assists in showing the digital layout and computer-based formatting.
Council Member (unnamed) – Provides advice on book care and preservation.

This video offers an educational and comprehensive overview of the art and technology behind bookmaking, emphasizing both tradition and modern industrial techniques. It also highlights the cultural value of books and the effort required to produce and preserve them.