February 2003: Perfect Binding Options...

Attractive and functional perfect-bound books are the result of plenty of communication between printer, finisher and client. There are many options and many details to get right in order for perfect-bound book production to go smoothly.

A proper layout is the key to a successful perfect binding project. With that in mind, here are a few layout planning tips to keep in mind:

Perfect Binding Layout Tips

  Include proper trim margins - Your layout should include proper trim margins; at The Riverside Group, we suggest placing 1/8” margins at the head, foot and face of all signatures. Also, layout images and copy away from the spine by 1/8” to account for grind-off.

  Don’t forget a glue trap - Cover layouts require an additional 1/8” glue trap margin at the head and foot. This extra margin helps prevent excess glue from seeping onto subsequent books during binding.

  Plan crossovers carefully - When images and copy cross over the spine, it’s important that the layout account for them - especially when they also cross over signatures. In addition to the 1/8” grind-off margin at the spine, make sure images are an additional 1/16” from the spine area. This will allow the crossovers to meet right at the spine.

  Nothing is set in stone - It’s important to remember that these margins are approximations.  Book block and paper thickness, inks and coatings are all different for each project. Let Riverside help you plan your layouts for efficient production and eye-catching results every time.