Print Binding, What Should You Use?

It takes a lot of work to put together a book or catalog. There are page counts, bleeding edges, and elements like creep to consider. Oh, and you have to lay the whole thing out too! But, one thing we urge designers not to forget is to plan what print binding they will use.

Print Binding, a Primer

When we say print binding, we simply mean how separate sheets of paper will be fastened together. This can take many forms depending on the project. Nothing more than a staple in a corner, or something as intricate and planned out as the case binding of a hardcover book.

Here is a quick look at some of the more common types of print binding you will encounter and a few notes on what projects they are good for.

Saddle Stitching

One of the most basic forms of binding, saddle stitching is simply stapling paper together at the crease of a center fold. Think of a comic book, or school play program. The sheets of paper are folded in half, and stapled on the spine. This is a great low cost binding for booklets or programs with a small amount of pages.

Spiral Binding

As a booklet or book gets thicker you will need different binding methods. Spiral binding or plastic coil is made by punching the edge of the paper and inserting a plastic coil through the holes. There are many different coil sizes available so they can work on large or smaller books. There are also many different colors available.

These work great for things like programs, workbooks, study materials, and business proposals.

Comb Binding

This method is similar to coil binding, but binds the paper by connecting two haves of a plastic hook. These can look a little nicer for thick books as they create a surface at the bound edge. You can also apply labels to this edge in larger books.

Great for reports, course materials, business proposals, and manuals.

Wire Binding

Sturdier than spiral or comb binding, wire binding also creates a more rigid alignment of the paper. There are many colors available, and also many different types of wire available – single wires, double wires, as well as exposed or concealed binding.

Perfect Binding

If you’ve seen a paperback book, then you have seen an example of perfect binding. The pages of a perfect bound book are glued together to form a block, and then a cover stock paper is wrapped around the outside and glued to the pages. This creates a really refined professional look. It’s great when you are designing something you would like your audience to keep for a while – like a book, program, guide, or novel.

Post Binding

Oft forgotten, post binding can be a really elegant way to get your printed materials to stand out. The binding is done by drilling a hole through the paper and then inserting an interlocking post. This creates a really nice look for a book or report.

Also, using a single post in a corner with heavy papers can be an excellent way to show a selection of options. A kind of swatchbook gallery of options for customers to browse through.

Every project is of course different. We take pride in finding the best print binding techniques to fit a given print project. If you’re looking for help, or just want to discuss more details, feel free to call, email, stop in, or comment below.

cutpasteandprint Printing, graphic design, binding, and promotional product specialists in Huntingdon Valley, PA. We proudly serve the Bucks and Montgomery County areas with superior quality, great customer service, and a commitment to getting you and your the best possible printed materials. Our services include: Digital Printing, Offset Printing, Graphic Design, Promotional Items, Bindery, and Copying.