These precision-cut spacing blocks are placed around the live type inside a chase to create the non-printing areas, such as margins and gutters. They are manufactured in standard pica widths and lengths to ensure exact alignment. Proper arrangement of these blocks transfers the clamping pressure from the quoins directly to the type, holding everything rigid for the press.
Grab some wider furniture for the head margin so we can drop the text block down a few picas.
Never use warped or damaged wooden blocks. If they compress unevenly under pressure, the entire form can spring loose on the press.
Related terms
Chase
A heavy steel or iron frame used to hold metal type and blocks securely together for printing.
Quoin
An expandable wedge used to lock metal type securely inside a chase.
Form
A complete body of assembled type and blocks locked into a chase ready for printing.
Reglet
A thin strip of wood used to create blank space between lines of metal type.