Design

CHOOSING A BINDING STYLE

When choosing a binding style, the project budget, schedule, and objectives are all considerations. However, the most important factor in choosing a binding style is the document itself, so ask yourself these questions:

What is the document application?
Who will be using the document, and how will it be used?
Will the document be updated or revised?
What size will the document be (page counts and dimensions of length, height, and width)?
What image or perception do you want to communicate to your audience?

DESIGNING FOR PERFECT-BOUND MATERIALS

Design the cover of a perfect-bound book to match the length of the folded signature.
Allow enough gutter between perfect-bound book covers printed multiple-up to match head and foot trim of folded signatures.
When ruled lines are close to the trim, minimize the pushout by folding heavyweight text in 8-page or 4-page signatures.
Coat or laminate perfect-bound covers when ink coverage on the outside is heavy.
Keep the inside spine and side glue-gutters of perfect-bound covers clear of coatings to assure best binding strength.

DESIGNING FOR MECHANICAL-BOUND MATERIALS

For Plastikoil, Wire O, or GBC bindings, the binding edge gutter varies with book thickness and type of binding. (Call us for specs.)

ELEMENTS OF STYLE

To make a good presentation, a print publication should include these elements:

An attractive cover to capture the reader's attention and pull them into the content.
A functional binding that makes it easy for the reader to use.
Good organization with dividers or tabs separating topics or sections.
A consistent look and feel throughout the entire document.

HANDING OFF YOUR PROJECT TO A BINDERY

Schedule bindery time as soon as possible after the job is awarded.
If we've given you a quote, please note it on your purchase order.
Clearly mark the contents on each skid or carton when packing a job for any bindery.
For timely turnaround and best quality, always enclose complete paperwork and samples with materials to be bound.

STORING & SHIPPING BOUND MATERIALS

Consider shrink-wrapping your materials if they will be shipped by UPS or FedEx, or if you’re generally concerned about keeping the materials in top-quality condition.