The prepress process of positioning multiple pages onto a single large press sheet. The layout is calculated so that when the printed sheet is folded into a signature and trimmed, the pages follow the correct numerical sequence. It accounts for margins, bleed, creep, and the specific folding equipment being used.
Check the imposition proof carefully to make sure page 8 and page 9 back each other up correctly.
A mistake in imposition ruins the entire print run, as the pages will be upside down or out of order once bound.
Related terms
Impose
To arrange pages or plates in the correct position so they fold into the proper sequence.
Signature
A large printed sheet folded multiple times to form a sequential section of a book.
Sheetwise
A printing method where one side of a sheet is printed, and then a different plate is used for the reverse.
Perfecting
The process of printing on both sides of a sheet or web of paper in a single pass through the press.