10 Book Binding Methods You Should Know
an end-to-end bookbinding reference for designers, students, and brands
You’ve put together a winning collection of pages for your publication, and now you need something sturdy to hold it all together. that’s where the art and craft of bookbinding comes in.
You are reading: Where to bind books
Beyond its obvious usefulness, there is a great deal of aesthetic pleasure to be found in a beautifully bound document. but choosing the right style can be a daunting task. especially when your bookbinding knowledge (or lack thereof) overwhelms your imagination.
intimidated? we’d be surprised if you weren’t.
That’s why we’ve created this helpful resource for designers, photographers, and the like looking to gauge a better understanding of what’s available. It’s time to get acquainted with the basics of post-print perfection, so you can pay more attention to your designs. future will thank you.
1. booklet stitch binding
When you have to bind quickly, you have to find the seam on the spine. Best suited for smaller documents, the saddle stitch is one of the easiest ways to secure printed sheets of paper folded in half. consider it a professional iteration of stapling that fits into any profitable brochure, booklet, catalogue, program or magazine.
bound documents with stapling on the spine.
2. pure union
what gives a paperback its pure, clean edges? a process called pur. You may have heard the term “perfect binding” and wondered what the difference is. both use a cardboard or thick cover to glue the pages to the spine. But while the two apps are similar in concept, a pur-bound document uses a special type of adhesive known as reactive polyurethane (hence the name).
Whether you want to print a paperback, annual report, or premium project, pur turns it into a strong, clean spine that’s durable enough to hold heavier stock.
book bound with a pure (perfect) binding
3. binding in hard cover or slipcase
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There’s nothing like a beautiful book that has been bound to remarkably high quality standards. Whether section-sewn or bound from loose sheets, this sturdier option will ensure your book becomes an attractive addition to any coffee table or bookshelf. while a hardcover or bound book may be more expensive to produce, they boast a longer shelf life and a much higher value.
if you plan to sell your work, there really is no substitute. Books bound in a hard cover and finished with material such as vellum or buckram are often produced with a hollow back and a visible seam so they open more freely.
book bound in slipcase for photographer ollie hodgkins covered with buckram cloth.
4. singer stitched binding
Collate pages for a creative project: Looking for something a little quirky? Singer stitching is a beautiful, traditional binding method in which a single thread (of any color) is sewn through folded pages at the spine. With no adhesives or staples, this secure binding method is typically used for single-section books. the seams can be visible on the outside or tucked inside.
book sewn by singer designed by athlete for kate disher-quill view project.
5. stitched binding
As the name suggests, this type of binding is sewn in sections along the spine and glued together for a sturdy finish. Ideal for small and large documents, section stitching allows you to lay your book flat regardless of the number of pages.
6. Coptic stitch binding
Similar to section stitching, you can lay your documents flat with Coptic stitches. Although this method is similar in form, a Coptic Stitch Link offers a non-adhesive finish. Regardless, this type of binding offers a flexible spine without sacrificing strength. is an option that allows you to fully open your workbook without affecting its integrity over time.
7. thread, comb or spiral binding
the quintessential method for business documents and school exercise books involving a simple wire loop and hole punch. but don’t underestimate the power of a wire, comb or coil tie. this option is extremely versatile and popular.
8. binding between screws
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Also known as chicago screw binding, this exceptionally durable print finish is a great choice for any portfolio or office document. the holes are drilled with the utmost precision and fixed with joint screws between two cladding boards. This binding style is a cleaner looking alternative to ring binding and still gives you the ability to add or remove pages as needed, which is great for restaurant menus and binders.
binding with chicago type screws or between screws
9. Japanese binding
a traditional style of softcover binding in which loose sheets are bound with a needle and thread, with the exposed cord treated as a feature of the style. this method doesn’t allow the book to lay flat, but its detail and charm add heart to any journal or notebook.
10. boxes and cases for solander
solander boxes and cases are the ideal way to store your archive and/or valuable material. it is a luxurious form of packaging that can be customized to your exact requirements. Choose from a variety of styles (shoebox, matchbox, verandah box, clamshell box, or pencil case) and embellish your logo or title with eye-catching foil or engraving.
book with slipcase designed by sdwm for the australian open view project.
do you need sheets for your folio?
Choose from 16 of our ready-to-use block sources to avoid the time and cost of making a custom block. If you would like more information on the different ways of binding a book, please contact us. our experts are here to provide you with the proper guidance.
There are so many ways to create, join, fold and assemble your document to enhance its function. But you’ll need to look beyond your ordinary binders to produce a quality book, journal or album. Whether it’s a small brochure or a large publication, creative bambra binding lends an incomparable sense of value to your project.
bound and laminated books for the olivia brighton view project.
have you heard about our new department?
bambra has recently expanded its specialist services to offer more bespoke binding and embellishment capabilities. Thanks to new machinery and some very special vintage binding equipment, bambra can now service a greater variety and quantity of intricate book work.
At the heart of this exciting new chapter are two of the most skilled binders in the industry. as irwin & melbourne institutional; mclaren closed its doors, bambra saw fit to make room for some new employees. storm and andrew are well known to creatives for their skill, passion and deep respect for their craft. Your involvement has been instrumental in the success of this product launch and we look forward to sharing your contributions with our own loyal customers.
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