Paste-up
Paste-up, also known as mechanical art, is a method used in the graphic design and printing industry to create a physical layout of a design before it is produced digitally. This process involves arranging text, images, and other elements on a board or paper to visualize the final design.
Paste-up was commonly used before the advent of desktop publishing software and digital printing technology. Designers would cut out images and text from printed materials and physically paste them onto a board to create a mockup of the final product. This method allowed designers to make adjustments and revisions more easily than working directly on the final product.
In paste-up, designers use tools such as X-Acto knives, rulers, and adhesive to create the layout. Once the design is finalized, it is photographed or scanned to create a digital file that can be used for printing or publication.
While paste-up is less commonly used today due to advances in technology, it remains a valuable skill for graphic designers to learn. Understanding the principles of paste-up can help designers improve their layout and composition skills, as well as appreciate the history of graphic design.
Examples of paste-up can still be seen in vintage publications and advertisements, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that was required in the pre-digital era of design.
For more information on paste-up, you can visit Wikipedia.