What does the term "gathering" refer to in printing?

The term "gathering" in printing specifically refers to the process of assembling printed signatures, which are groups of pages that have been printed on a single sheet of paper and then folded. In the context of bookbinding or multi-page printed products, gathering is a crucial step because it ensures that the pages are organized in the correct order before they are bound together. This process is key in producing any printed material that consists of multiple pages, such as books, magazines, or brochures, as it impacts the overall quality and appearance of the final product.

The other terms listed, although related to various aspects of printing, focus on different processes. Collecting printed sheets involves organizing sheets after they have been printed but does not specifically denote the assembly of folded signatures. Arranging final documents refers to the organization of completed materials, which can happen at various stages, not just after printing. Distributing printed materials encompasses the delivery of the finished product to its intended audience, which is a step that occurs after gathering.