Why use perfect binding?

The way a publication is bound will impact on its look, its durability and its affordability. Selecting the right binding technique will help you to create a piece that’s stylish, long lasting and cost effective.

One of the most popular techniques for binding a paperback book, magazine or catalogue is perfect binding. Cost effective and aesthetically pleasing, it could be the perfect choice for your next printed publication.

What is perfect binding?

Perfect binding is a process, commonly used by printers and bookmakers, where groups of pages are bound together using adhesive to create a clean, crisp and professional printed product. It involves printing one or more sheets containing sets of pages which are then laid out so that once the sheet is folded, they create a group of pages known as signatures. These signatures are stacked together and the edges, which will form the spine, are roughened to improve adhesion. An adhesive is then applied to the spine before a cover is wrapped around them. Once the glue has dried, three of the sides are trimmed to create the finished publication.

The benefits of perfect binding

Perfect binding has a number of compelling benefits. Firstly, and most importantly for many, it’s very affordable. Not only are perfectly bound books more cost effective than hardcover binding methods, perfect binding can be used on relatively small print runs, allowing customers to create high quality printed products on a budget.

Another benefit of perfect binding is that it creates a flat spine that can then be printed on. This allows information such as the title of the publication and author to appear on the spine.

When can perfect binding be used?

Perfect binding is an incredibly versatile binding method. Making is suitable for a wide variety of publications, such as a 32 page magazine or a catalogue with several hundred pages. However, it is not recommended if the thickness of the spine is less than 4mm as this will not provide enough surface area for the glue to stick to. Saddle stitching would be a more suitable option.

How to calculate the width of a spine

To work out the thickness of book or magazine try using our spine width calculator.

If you would like to find out more about perfect binding or other binding options, explore our site or contact our sales team.