A gutter margin is the extra space added to the inner edge of a page (the side that will be bound or stapled). It ensures that text or images are not lost in the binding and remain readable.
Why Use a Gutter Margin?
Binding accommodation: When pages are bound together, the binding consumes part of the inner margin. The gutter prevents content from being hidden.
Improved readability: Readers can see the full line of text without having to pull the page open.
Professional appearance: Documents such as reports, dissertations, and booklets look neater when the gutter is correctly set.
Consistent layout: All pages have the same amount of usable space, which is important for pagination and page numbering.
When to Apply a Gutter Margin
Documents that will be stapled or spiral‑bound.
Reports or assignments that are perfect‑bound (glued).
Any multi‑page document that will be folded into a booklet.
When printing double‑sided (duplex) copies.
Typical Gutter Sizes
The size of the gutter depends on the binding method and the number of pages. Below is a guideline:
Binding Method
Typical Gutter Width
Notes
Staple (single or double)
5 mm – 7 mm
Enough space for the staple to sit without covering text.
Spiral or comb
7 mm – 10 mm
Wider gutter for the coil or comb.
Perfect binding (glue)
10 mm – 15 mm
Large gutter for thick books where the spine takes more space.
Booklet (folded sheets)
6 mm – 8 mm
Ensures content is not lost in the fold.
How to Set a Gutter Margin in Common Software
Below are the steps for two widely used word processors.
Microsoft Word
Open the Layout (or Page Layout) tab.
Click Margins → Custom Margins….
In the dialog box, locate the Gutter field.
Enter the required gutter size (e.g., 10 mm).
Choose whether the gutter is applied to the Left (for single‑sided) or Top (for landscape) side.
Click OK.
LibreOffice Writer
Go to Format → Page Style….
Select the Page tab.
In the Margins section, find the Gutter field.
Enter the desired gutter width.
Choose the Gutter position (Left or Top).
Press OK.
Impact of Incorrect Gutter Settings
Text or graphics may be hidden in the binding, making the document look unprofessional.
Readers may need to force the pages open, potentially damaging the document.
Page numbers and footnotes can become misaligned, causing confusion.
Quick Checklist Before Printing
Identify the binding method you will use.
Choose the appropriate gutter width from the table above.
Set the gutter in your word processor.
Print a test page (single‑sided) and check the inner margin.
Adjust if any content is too close to the binding edge.
Suggested diagram: Cross‑section of a bound document showing the outer margin, text block, and gutter margin.