Abstract: Three-dimensional structures are preferably formed of folded printed material which becomes three-dimensional and exhibits a shadowbox effect when in the open position, but which remains substantially two-dimensional when closed. The structures are formed from a base sheet having a plurality of fold-lines that define a plurality of panels. Two panels are hinged and may be opened to display one or more tiers, which are defined by additional panels. Optionally, one or more panels may have cutout sections, particularly the panels forming the tiers, thereby providing a tiered shadowbox effect.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for personalizing printed media such as (but not limited to) catalogs, magazines, and books are disclosed. Personalized components are created before binding of the media occurs, reducing use of ink-jet printers on-line. At least the personalized components contain machine-readable indicia to permit identification and coordination of use of the components during the binding processes.