Jansen style. A style of decoration in which the book is absolutely plain on the outside except for lettering. The inside covers, however, may be elaborately decorated.
Joints. The part of the book which bends when the book is opened. See also Grooves; French joint.
Kettlestitch. The stitch made at the head and tail of the book fastening a signature at these points to the preceding signature.
Keys. Small metal objects which fasten the bands to the under side of the sewing bench.
Kip calf. Made from the skin of a heifer. Stronger than calfskin.
Knocking-down iron. Iron plate on which books are placed when it is necessary to hammer down the ends of laced-in bands to prevent them from showing.
Label. A piece of paper or leather affixed to the back of a book on which to letter information.
Lacing-in. Process of attaching the ends of bands to boards through holes made with an awl. See page 42.
Large-paper edition. Copies of a book printed on paper with wide margins.
Laying press. See Lying press.