Typesetting Running Headers & Page Numbers for Print Books
Designing a print interior? Learn how totypeset running headers, place page numbers, and configure chapter title layouts.
Eleanor Vance
Head of Digital Production
"Running headers and page numbers guide readers through physical books. Typesetting these elements correctly prevents header overlap and ensures page numbers align across spreads."
Core Key Takeaways
- Sizing and Aligning Running Headers
- Placing Page Numbers in Footers or Headers
- Formatting Chapter Opener Pages Correctly
1. Sizing and Aligning Running Headers
Running headers display the author name on left-hand pages and the book title on right-hand pages. Align headers centered or flush outer margins.
- Author Name: Format on left-hand headers in clean serif fonts.
- Book Title: Format on right-hand headers in matching serif fonts.
- Omit headers on chapter opener pages to maintain clean layout.
2. Placing Page Numbers in Footers or Headers
Place page numbers consistently in the footer (centered or outer margins) or outer corners of running headers. Never place numbers on inner margins.
Transform Your Manuscript into a Retail-Ready Print & eBook Layout
Avoid margin rejections and broken reflows. Our senior book designers craft custom InDesign spreads, decorative chapter headings, and validated responsive EPUBs.
3. Formatting Chapter Opener Pages Correctly
Omit running headers and page numbers on chapter opener pages. Chapter opener layouts should start one-third of the way down the page.
The Takeaway
Polished layouts reflect traditional standards. Trust the interior layout team at Golden Ivory Publishing to design beautiful print spreads.
Transform Your Manuscript into a Retail-Ready Print & eBook Layout
Avoid margin rejections and broken reflows. Our senior book designers craft custom InDesign spreads, decorative chapter headings, and validated responsive EPUBs.
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