1010 Printing Award for Best Cookbook 2024
Finalist
Designer: Cat Taylor
Title: The Lucky Taco Cookbook
Publisher: Penguin Random House NZ
Format: 220 x 220mm, 216pp. Casebound, section sewn in 12pp, separate ends, fully cased with PLC over board. Bright yellow H&T bands sit within the hot pink spine.
The finishings are integral to the cover design creating a tactile package. The deboss and spot UV hero the strong Lucky Taco branding from Otis Frizzel, playing with light and dark. Matt varnish cover with spot UV over the hot pink spine to create a false quarter bind.
Typography: Primary/headline font: Ray Johnson. (varying sizes)
H2: KG Always a good time (varying sizes). Secondary/body copy font: Futura LT Pro (baseline grid).
“The authors shared a folder of initial rough logo sketches in various states (think pencil and blue and red biro on a scrap pieces of paper) which I scanned, cleaned up and used to create 1c endpapers.” – Cat Taylor
Judges’ comments
This cookbook stands out with bold approach, capturing the vibrant energy and pizzazz of Mexican cuisine. The bright colours and eclectic photography are fittingly paired with the lively content. The UV finishes and tactile elements elevate the design, creating a strong, cohesive brand. The endpapers, headbands, and glossy paper choice all contribute to the book’s exuberant feel, while the art direction and use of Bright flat colours give it a joyful, authentic touch. The personable inclusion of original biro sketches from the authors collection and the spacious layout make this a welcoming guide to Mexican food.
