I'm typesetting a book with some music notation in it. There are several references to 3/4 and 4/4 time, which I had set in nifty opentype fractions; however, the editor and I are unsure of whether or not this refers to "four-four" or "four-fourths" time - and this is one of the few things that Chicago doesn't address. So, designers and readers: what do you think? 4/4, using lining numerals, or a 4/4 fraction?
posted by luriete on Dec 26, 2009 - 5 answers

What software should be used for creating/designing a leaflet or book? Why? Also, is there an industry standard desktop publishing software? (InDesign, QuarkXPress?) [more inside]
posted by Memo on Aug 10, 2009 - 13 answers

Inspired by the Tweetbook I've decided to use Lulu to make a print version of my high school-era livejournal. How do I easily turn the XML file with all of of my entries, comments, and associated metadata into something I can print? [more inside]
posted by Newbornstranger on Apr 8, 2009 - 1 answer

Can you point me to any specifics about which book cover designs or designs in general appeal more to people aged 18 to 34? I have an author with a book she feels will appeal to that demographic, and she wants to optimize the book cover design to best attract that group's attention. Barring that, are there any best seller lists that are broken down by age, especially self-help/career types of books?
posted by willnot on Mar 9, 2009 - 4 answers

I want to read a book about Disney's parks, specifically, one that focuses on the parks' designs and their impact on the visitor's experience. [more inside]
posted by davebush on Jul 27, 2008 - 5 answers

I've always been fascinated by this book cover for Gödel, Escher, Bach. Anybody know how the woodcarving was designed, how it was made and how I could perhaps make one myself? [more inside]
posted by cog_nate on May 16, 2008 - 5 answers

Giftfilter: I am looking for a book for my grandfather, a retired architect, as a thank you gift for building me a desk. [more inside]
posted by Sreiny on Oct 28, 2007 - 10 answers

Decent web design book for a web developer? [more inside]
posted by the ghost of Ken Lay on Aug 8, 2007 - 4 answers

My mom's a research scientist; I've convinced her to get an Edward Tufte book (partly because she uses Powerpoint a lot). Which one should she get?
posted by Tlogmer on Jul 6, 2007 - 19 answers

Best way to manage sketchbooks? [more inside]
posted by b33j on Jun 22, 2007 - 6 answers

Help me find a book about faucet design. [more inside]
posted by [insert clever name here] on Oct 11, 2006 - 6 answers

I need suggestions for a good book that covers digital circuit design (specifically practical design using MSI/LSI TTL, PLD's, CMOS, FPGA, etc. [more inside]
posted by beammeup4 on Sep 21, 2006 - 2 answers

I need to apply custom type to Davey Board (bookbinding board), is screen printing my only option? [more inside]
posted by Sreiny on Apr 11, 2006 - 9 answers

Recommendations for online Quark-based book layout and/or design resources? A free template for Standard Paperback format would be supremely appreciated.
posted by davebush on Nov 18, 2005 - 3 answers

I've been asked to lay out a book for a small publisher. Aesthetically, I have a good idea of where I need to go with this. But this is my first foray into book design. What sort of application should I be using? I'd like to learn a bit about LaTex (I'm on a Mac running 10.4.1), as this seems like the most cost effective and professional route. Ultimately, I need to deliver the document in PDF format. Any suggestions or help would be much appreciated!
posted by aladfar on Jul 1, 2005 - 17 answers

What are the essential reference works for someone interested in typography, especially the aspects dealing with layout? I have and adore "The Elements of Typographic Style" by Robert Bringhurst, an amazingly useful, well designed book. I also am fond of "The Non-Designers Design Book," by Robin Williams but I'm looking for things like the Bringhurst rather than the more general advice in Williams's books.
posted by Grod on Jun 12, 2004 - 8 answers

What are your favorite book jacket or cover designs? What do you look for when you judge a book by its cover? I'm doing a design favor for a friend and need some inspiration. It's a word-heavy, non-fiction book targeted at the more brainy types. Any classic, timeless cover that makes you caress its spine every time you see the volume?
posted by TurkeyMustard on Feb 3, 2004 - 17 answers