Gutter
A gutter is a term used in newspaper and magazine publishing to describe the blank space or margin between two facing pages where they meet at the binding or fold. It's an essential concept in page layout and design that ensures text and images are properly visible and not lost in the fold of the publication. When looking at resumes in publishing, this term often appears in context of layout design, editorial work, or print production roles. Similar terms you might see include "margin," "spread," or "layout spacing."
Examples in Resumes
Designed page layouts with proper gutter spacing for daily newspaper sections
Managed gutter margins and bleeds for special magazine editions
Optimized gutters for both print and digital format conversions
Typical job title: "Layout Designers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Layout Designers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you approach gutter management for different types of publications?
Expected Answer: A senior designer should discuss how gutter specifications vary between newspapers, magazines, and digital formats, mentioning considerations like binding methods, paper stock, and reader comfort.
Q: How do you handle gutter adjustments when converting print layouts to digital formats?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of adapting traditional print gutters for digital viewing, including responsive design considerations and maintaining readability across different screen sizes.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when setting gutter widths?
Expected Answer: Should mention publication type, binding method, page count, paper thickness, and how these affect gutter width decisions.
Q: How do you ensure content doesn't get lost in the gutter?
Expected Answer: Should explain techniques for protecting content near the binding, including safe zones and spacing guidelines for different publication types.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a gutter and why is it important in page layout?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that a gutter is the space between pages at the binding, and why it's necessary for readability and proper printing.
Q: What are standard gutter measurements for different publications?
Expected Answer: Should know basic measurements for newspaper columns, magazine spreads, and standard publication formats.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of page layout principles
- Knowledge of standard gutter measurements
- Ability to work with layout software
- Understanding of print basics
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced layout techniques
- Experience with various publication types
- Problem-solving layout challenges
- Digital format adaptation
Senior (5+ years)
- Expert knowledge of all publication formats
- Team leadership in design decisions
- Complex layout problem solving
- Cross-platform design expertise
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic layout principles
- Lack of experience with professional design software
- Unable to explain different publication format requirements
- No understanding of print production process
