Print media is such a key factor in marketing. This type of marketing content separates yourself from an ever increasing digital world. The immense volume of information given to customers on digital platforms, means print will set you apart. Your advertising will be seen more as they’re not ignored or deleted as we so often do in the digital world , but how do you make sure yours stands out above the rest – well thought out and quality finishing and your design should work around it.

In this article we have put together the ins and outs of binding, what the different types are, what to look for, how to be inspired and how to push boundaries.

Choosing the perfect binding option?

Choosing the right binding for your printing projects can be a challenge, and usually e type of binding selected is based on the function and the number of pages of the document and of course the printing budget. Unless quality is a priority and budget is higher than normal or the binding itself is part of the concept then aesthetic appeal binding gives is last on the list. It shouldn’t really be this way around though. The correct binding finishes off your perfectly printed project, it shows quality and care and thought was put into the design and execution, giving your brand the upper hand.

So how do you decide, we have put together some technical specifications about binding so you can know your way around what to ask your printers and designed and we have collated some of the best binding in design so you can see it from all angles before making a decision.

Saddle Stitching

Probably the most common and economical binding method. Created by punching wire through the document’s outside spine, then bending the wire flat on the inside center fold to grip all the pages. It may provide a similar look, but is not the same as stapling.

Loop Stitched

Comparable to saddle stitching, but with a different effect. Loops are created with wire along the external spine in order to insert and secure the document into a 3-ring binder. Great option for information instalments that can be added to larger collection.

Perfect Bound

Sections of folded pages (signatures) have their spines trimmed off and roughed up to improve bonding with glue. All sections are collated and glued to its wrap-around cover. Cover is always scored on back and front, for ease of opening and less stress on spine.

Tape Bound 

This method involves an adhesive tape being wrapped around the spine to hold the covers and inside pages in place. Usually pages need to be stitched together prior to affixing the tape to reinforce and provide added strength.

Screw Bound

In screw, stud or post binding, first holes are drilled through the complete document. Then a barrel post is inserted through the holes and a cap screw is added to the post to hold everything together. Frequently used for swatch books.

Plastic Comb Bound

Economical method suitable for manuals and books that need to lay flat when open. Using rectangular holes punched through the document, the plastic combs rings are threaded through holes. Page edges at spine are covered by plastic comb.

Plastikoil Bound

Utilizes a smooth round coil to hold pages together. Allows book to lie flat when open or pages can be turned all the way around to the back if desired. Wire is threaded through punched holes and then ends are crimped to prevent wire slipping off. Spirals or coils are available in variety of colours.

Wire Bound 

Highly popular Wire bind option uses formed wire that threads through punched holes. This allows books to lay flat when open. Wire loops are available in variety of colours to coordinate with cover colour. A durable option for a wide variety of project types.

Now that we have gone through the technical jargon of binding options, what about the design element when binding, the innovation to lift printed materials and the thought behind a well-executed design. The finish you give your end product and catches the eye of consumers is hugely important and keeps the client coming back to your annual report, catalogue, brochure and company profile. The touch, feel and usability is something that should be added into the budget to give that perfect bound printed material.

Here are some of our favourites: