Rough cut (Deckled edged)

Rough Cut (Deckled Edged): A Vintage, Handcrafted Finish

Rough cut, also known as deckle-edged, is a unique bookbinding technique that adds a vintage, handcrafted feel to hardcover books. This style features an intentional, uneven cut along the edges of the book’s pages, creating a soft, organic look reminiscent of traditional, untrimmed edges that were common in early publishing.

In rough cut binding, the cover is trimmed flush with the book block, exposing the board on one, two, or all three sides, which enhances the tactile quality of the book. The uneven edges of the pages give the book a distinctive, antiquarian aesthetic, perfect for creating a nostalgic or artisan-inspired design.

Deckle-edged books are ideal for luxury editions, artist books, or specialty publications where the focus is on craftsmanship and unique presentation. This technique is especially popular for fine art books, collector’s editions, and limited print runs, offering a timeless look that appeals to readers and collectors alike.