Subs were given story lengths, measured as inches down a single column of type, and had to estimate how many words to cut. Comps would assemble the page, guided by the sketched layout, using the cooled metal type, before it was secured in a frame; dropping it was a disaster known as printer’s pie. On deadline, subs had to be able to read the lead over-matter laid out on the side upside down as well as back to front. These days, many of us in London work across web and print. The moment when journalists were on machines dealing with type themselves was a huge step, Sivell says.

Source: The Guardian August 02, 2021 07:01 UTC