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Binding - What Desktop Designers Should Know

September 2002

Binding - a lot of us think of it as that thing that happens after we're done with a project and after its been printed. However, binding plays a much larger role than that in desktop design as we often need to make allowances for the type of binding during the design stage of a publication. Also, how something is bound contributes greatly to its overall functionality (ever try to do something in a program with the help of a software manual that would not stay open when lying flat?).

Let's walk through the main types of binding:

Cerlox Binding

This type of binding involves punching rectangular holes in a document and inserting a plastic "comb" that holds things together. This type of binding is not particularly attractive, but can look quite respectable if proper care is taken in regards to color selection and the covers of the publication.

Advantages:

· Quick and cost effective for the smallest of quantities

· You can add pages after it's been bound

· Publication stays open when lying flat

Disadvantages:

· Not as attractive as other types of bindings

· Not as durable as other types of bindings

· Awkward with larger publications

· Relatively expensive for larger quantities

Considerations while setting up publications for Cerlox binding:

· Approximately ¼" of binding edge of publication both inside and out is obscured by binding

Spiral Binding

Spiral binding involves punching small round holes through a document and threading a round plastic coils through the binding area. It is often used for manuals and long booklets as it is cost effective in both large and small quantities and stays open when lying flat.

Advantages:

· Cost effective at relatively small quantities

· Publication stays open when lying flat

· Durable

Disadvantages:

· Typically not as professional looking as saddle stitching or perfect binding

Considerations while setting up publications for spiral binding:

· Approximately ¼" of binding edge of publication both inside and out is obscured by binding

Saddle Stitching

Although done slightly differently in professional settings, saddle stitching is essentially stapling a publication down its spine. Typical uses might be for programs or short booklets. In these situations you will typically see an 11"x17" sheet used, folded down to an 8 ½" x 11" publication or an 8 ½" x 11" sheet folded down to a 5 ½" x 8 ½" publication.

Advantages:

· Cost effective

· Very suitable for short publications

· Professional looking

Disadvantages:

· Not always suitable for longer documents

Considerations while setting up publications for saddle stitching:

· Pages must be set up for reproduction in "printer's spreads." This means that in an eight page document page 1 would be placed next to page 8, page 2 next to page 7, etc. (check with your printer for these sort of requirements).

· Larger saddle stitched publications must be trimmed so the outer edge is flush throughout the booklet. This means that you must allow large enough outer margins in your publication so that they will be suitable after trimming. Ask your printer about this if you're printing a document longer than 32 pages.

Perfect Binding

Perfect binding uses a glue-based system to glue a soft cover to your publication. This method is used for everything from paperback books to phone books.

Advantages:

· Very professional looking

Disadvantages:

· Will not stay open when lying flat

· Not always cost effective for small quantities

· May not be durable enough to stand up to heavy use (i.e. manuals, textbooks).

Considerations while setting up publications for perfect binding:

· Books need to be trimmed when bound, so leave a large enough outer margin

· It's hard to read text too close to the bound edge, so leave a large enough inner margin

· Sophisticated "imposition" (or placing of pages) may be required prior to printing - always check first with your printer.

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