How To Select From The Many Types of Book Binding
Whether you are interested in book binding for a quick class lecture or a multi-million dollar real estate proposal we can assist in determining the perfect finish for your project.
Plastic Coil Binding
Spiral Binding and Coil Binding are interchangeable bindery terms for the exact same book binding method. This popular method joins the pages of a book using durable plastic shaped similar to a long spring. The plastic coil is inserted and twisted through small holes punched along the spinal edge of the book’s pages. The spiral coil holds the pages as an assembly, yet still allows the book to open freely. The number of holes punched per inch is referred to as ‘pitch’. A typical book will have 4 holes per inch (4:1) being the most commonly used pitch. After the spiral coil is fed through all the holes in the pages both end are crimped to prevent from twisting out.
A plastic coil option is effective and an economical way to bind any book or presentation without looking inexpensive. Clients like the benefits of a spiral bound book as it provides the ability to have pages being open a full 360 degrees (cover to cover). This option also allows an open book to fold back upon itself and still remain flat, so it stays open for easy reference while taking up minimal desk or table space. Plastic coil colors have come a long way from the generic black or white. Color options now are almost limitless. Yes, custom color coils are a ‘thing’. Ask about our color selection!
Wire-O Binding
For all practical purposes wire-o binding is the same thing as plastic coil binding; however, the look is elevated. The look is more industrial and typically used in the financial/banking, architecture, and construction industries. Clients seeking to add ‘fire power’ to their piece will upgrade with this look. With this option, the center spread and lay-flat abilities are present. Wire-O binding comes in standard black metal. Let us know your intended use for your piece and we will ensure the proper binding is used.
Saddle-Stitch Binding
Saddle-Stitching is book binding via staples. We take folded sheets/signatures which are gathered together one inside another and then stapled through the fold line with wire staples. The staples pass through the folded crease from the outside and are clinched between the centermost pages. It is an economical way to bind books, magazines, newsletters, or presentations with lower page counts. These pieces must have a page count divisible by 4.
Perfect Binding
Perfect Binding among these 4 options is the most expensive option we produce. This option certainly reflects the higher-end look. A perfect bound book looks like a magazine or soft covered book. The cover is scored and wraps around from front to back while pages are glued to the spine. If you are looking for an impressive portfolio, perfect binding will not disappoint. That said, there are a couple limitations. First, our rule of thumb is any book being perfect bound must be minimum 1/8” thick (not including cover). Magazines and books that do not meet thickness will cause the piece to fall apart sooner. Secondly, if you are looking to highlight a center spread the perfect bind option may do more of a disservice as the piece does not lay flat. The impact of the center spread can be lost in the technicality of the binding. Many of our clients choose perfect binding for their annual reports, product catalogs, magazines, and self-published books. Ask for an example today!
