Stamp page numbers across a whole PDF
Japanese printers call these nombre — a running folio on every page. Most doujinshi printers require them so the bindery can catch a missing or out-of-order signature, and adding them in one pass saves a frantic evening.
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Three placements
Outer-bottom sits in the corner nearest the fore edge, where readers look for it. Bottom-centre stays put on both rectos and versos, which suits a layout you would rather not disturb. Hidden placement tucks a small number into the gutter area that binding covers — enough to satisfy the printer without touching the artwork. Outer and hidden placements mirror between odd and even pages according to the binding edge you pick.
Skipping covers and title pages
Type something like "1,2,15-16" into the skip field and those pages get no number and consume none, so numbering continues unbroken on the pages that do get one. To start the visible count at page three, skip 1 and 2 and leave the start number at 1.
Digits only, so nothing breaks
Only ASCII digits are drawn, using a PDF standard font — no Japanese font has to be embedded and the file renders identically everywhere. Eight to ten points, 8 mm up from the bottom trim and 12 mm in from the side, is a comfortable default. Bleed, trim marks and paper thickness differ from printer to printer — always check the spec sheet of the shop you are submitting to.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need page numbers?
Japanese printers usually list them as a submission requirement, because the bindery checks page order by eye. If numbers would spoil full-bleed artwork, most shops accept a small hidden number in the gutter — confirm with yours.
Does the page count change?
No. The original pages are kept and the number is drawn on top. Size and content are otherwise untouched.
Should I number before or after imposition?
Always before. Numbering after imposition numbers the printed sides, which has nothing to do with the order a reader sees.