Endpaper: Connecting Book Block and Cover

What is Endpaper?

Endpaper consists of a double sheet folded in the middle, which is inserted between the book block and the cover. One half, the so-called pastedown or endpaper lining, is glued to the inside of the cover. The other half, the flyleaf or free endpaper, remains loose and precedes the actual book content.

Thus, the endpaper fulfills several important functions:

• It firmly connects the book block to the cover, providing stability.
• It conceals the inner sides of the cover.
• It protects the first and last pages of the book.
• It can contribute to the decoration and design of the book.

Endpaper plays a crucial role in the durability and longevity of a book, as it holds the book block and cover together. Without endpaper, the pages would quickly become loose.

Types and Quality of Endpaper

There are various types of endpaper that differ in format, color, patterning, and grammage. The choice depends on the intended use, the binding type, and the desired appearance.

The following types of endpaper are commonly used:

• Solid-colored endpaper in white, cream, or other colors
• Printed endpaper with patterns, motifs, or maps
• Technical endpaper with special properties for particular binding techniques

Due to the high stress in the fold area, endpaper must be particularly stable, tear-resistant, and opaque. Therefore, papers with a grammage between 100-130 g/m2 are usually used. Natural paper or ribbed paper is often utilized.

Use of Endpaper

Endpaper is used in both industrial production and hand-bound books. While simple paperbacks often omit endpapers, they are a must for high-quality hardcovers. Here, they significantly contribute to the value and longevity of the book.

Depending on the binding type, there are special endpaper variants optimally adapted to the requirements. For example, French binding, millimeter binding, or spring back require specific types of endpaper. As a general rule, the more high-quality and bibliophilic a book is designed, the more elaborate and extensive the endpaper construction.

For very fine books, the endpaper is also often used for decoration. Here, particularly high-quality, printed, or handmade decorative papers are used to give the book a luxurious touch. In the past, endpapers made of marble or moiré paper were very popular.

Benefits of Endpaper

Using endpaper offers many advantages:

• Stability: It firmly connects the book block and cover.
• Protection: It safeguards the first and last pages from wear and dirt.
• Appearance: It can contribute to the design and decoration of the book.
• Longevity: High-quality endpapers increase the lifespan of a book.
• Value: Elaborate endpapers underscore the bibliophilic character.

Especially for publishers, bookbinderies, and self-publishers, high-quality endpaper is an important design tool to enhance books and make them stand out from the crowd. The investment in good endpaper also pays off in terms of price, as it significantly increases the lifespan and quality of the final product.