B sizes
ISO international size range for large format printing, intended primarily for posters, wall charts and similar items. Calverts often uses B sizes for publications work, because it can be both elegant and unusual, as well as utilising our presses to best effect. However, for multipage work, we print slightly smaller than the sizes below, to allow for trims, bleeds, binding gutters and so on. For instance, B5 would be 170mm x 240mm.
| Size | Width mm | x | Height mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| B0 | 1000 | x | 1400 |
| B1 | 700 | x | 1000 |
| B2 | 500 | x | 700 |
| B3 | 350 | x | 500 |
| B4 | 250 | x | 350 |
| B5 | 175 | x | 250 |
Bitmap
A pattern of bits (a bit is a single binary digit, either 0 or 1) used to describe the organisation of data. Bitmaps are used to store graphic images or typefaces, with 1 representing black (or a colour) and 0 white. Resolution of a PostScript file processed through a RIP will have a bitmap image with characteristics and resolution of the particular output device.
Byte
Sufficient computer memory to store a single character of data. The character is stored in the byte memory as a pattern of bits using a code such as ASCII. A byte usually contains eight bits. Computer memory size is measured in Kilobytes (1,024 bytes) or megabytes (1,024 kilobytes) or Gigabytes (1,024 megabytes).
Bleed
Part of a printed image which runs off the edge of trimmed page area. Calverts usually specifies that a minimum 3mm of bleed should be incorporated into artwork supplied to us.
Board
What printers call card - heavier paper, and usually defined as 200 microns and over (caliper) for uncoated, or 200gsm and over (weight) for coated grades.
Brief
See Design brief
Bulk
Thickness of a sheet. Coated and uncoated paper both of the same weight (gsm) display different bulk or caliper, which is usually expressed in microns (mu - thousandths of a millimetre).