Glossary - G

Galley proof

Proofs taken from the galleys (see following) before being made up into pages.

Gamut

In color reproduction, including computer graphics and photography, the gamut, or color gamut, is a certain complete subset of colors. The most common usage refers to the subset of colors which can be accurately represented in a given circumstance, such as within a given color space or by a certain output device. Another sense, less frequently used but not less correct, refers to the complete set of colors found within an image at a given time. In this context, digitizing a photograph, converting a digitized image to a different color space, or outputting it to a given medium using a certain output device generally alters its gamut, in the sense that some of the colors in the original are lost in the process.

Gatefold

An oversize page where both sides fold into the gutter in overlapping layers. Used to accommodate maps into books.

Gathering

The operation of inserting the printed pages, sections or signatures of a book in the correct order for binding.

GIF

Stands for Graphics Interchange Format. GIF images are the most widely used graphic format on the web. GIF images display up to 256 colours.

Gloss ink

For use in litho and letterpress printing on coated papers where the ink will dry without pentration.

Grade

General term used to distinguish between or among printing papers, but whose specific meaning depends on context. Grade can refer to the category, class, rating, finish or brand of paper.

Grey scale

A range of luminance values for evaluating shading through white to black. Frequently used in discussions about scanners as a measure of their ability to capture halftone images. Basically the more levels the better but with correspondingly larger memory requirements.

Grid

A systematic division of a page into areas to enable designers to ensure consistency. The grid acts as a measuring guide and shows text, illustrations and trim sizes.

GSM

Grams per square metre. The unit of measurement for paper weight.

Gutter

The central blank area between left and right pages.