Binding Methods
There are various different ways to combine multiple pages into a single finished unit and the option you’ll want to choose will depend on your specific needs. Remember that the binding will add the final touch.
There are various different ways to combine multiple pages into a single finished unit and the option you’ll want to choose will depend on your specific needs. Remember that the binding will add the final touch.
Saddle stitch
An economical way of binding a small amount of pages together, this method consists of stapling the papers together along the spine. It can generate a high-class look if quality pages and thick laminated covers are used.
Features:
- Economical
- Fairly durable
- Finished product does not open flat
- Pages cannot be added or removed
Ideal use:
- Catalogues
- Brochures
- Reports
Plastic comb binding
This popular method is comprised of fitting a plastic comb into pre-punched holes along the papers’ edges.
Features:
- Economical
- Fairly durable
- Finished product opens flat
- Pages can be added or removed
- Combs available in several colours
- Does not give a high-class appearance
Ideal use:
- Cookery books
- Manuals
- Teaching resources
Thermal tape binding
This fast and neat method involves affixing strips covered with heat-activated glue to the edge of the pages.
Features:
- Economical
- Fairly durable
- Fast turnaround time
- Thermal tape available in a several colours
- Does not give a high-class appearance
- Finished product does not open flat
- Pages cannot be added or removed
Ideal use:
- Thesis books
- Manuals
Perfect binding
This quick but clean look is created by using an outer cover whose spine has been pre-glued and attaching the pages to it. A lining is added to the binding edge if the book is to be case bound.
Features:
- Economical
- Moderately durable
- Fast turnaround time
- High-class appearance
- Finished product does not open flat
- Pages cannot be added or removed
Ideal use:
- Soft-back books
- Catalogues
- Manuals
- Brochures
Wiro –binding
This is a durable method of binding that has a wire form teeth or double loops that fit into rectangular holes in the paper.
Features:
- Economical
- Fast turnaround time
- Durable
- High-class appearance
- Finished product opens flat
- Allows 360º turning
- Wires available in several colours
- Pages cannot be added or removed
Ideal use:
- Calendars
- Cookery books
- Manuals
Spiral binding
This economical method of binding is comprised of winding single or double loop wire or plastic and fitting them into round or rectangular holes in the pages.
Features:
- Economical
- Moderately durable
- Fast turnaround time
- Finished product opens flat
- Allows 360º turning
- Wires available in several colours
- Pages cannot be added or removed
Ideal use:
- Calendars
- Jotter pads
Slotted binding
This is a durable method and involves cutting slots into the spine of the book to allow the applied adhesives to penetrate.
Features:
- Durable and resilient
- Gives a professional appearance
- Pages cannot be added or removed
- Book does not open flat
Ideal use:
- Text books
- Literature books
Sewn binding
This is a particularly durable binding method where a sewing machine inserts threads through the spine of each section and they are then bound together using further threads to form the final book.
Features:
- A most durable method of binding
- Gives a professional appearance
- Pages cannot be added or removed
- Book does not open flat
Ideal use:
- Text books
- Literature book
