March 2003: Case Binding Options ...

When your books need a binding style that’s both durable and attractive, look no further than case binding. With several binding options and nearly limitless design flexibility, case-bound books are an ideal solution for applications such as reference materials, children’s books, textbooks and more.

Case Binding Construction Options

There are several different case binding styles. Although cased-in Wire-O is a popular option, we’ll focus on the various case binding techniques that include the use of adhesives:

Cased-in Perfect Binding - This style can be performed with either a standard perfect-binding EVA hot-melt or PUR adhesive, which offers much more strength. Cased-in perfect binding can be produced efficiently, and is suitable for most applications that call for cased-in production.

Cased-in Notch Binding - Similar to cased-in perfect binding, but with notches removed from the spines of the signatures to allow for increased glue penetration. Cased-in notch binding offers increased strength over cased-in EVA adhesive binding.

Thread sealing  - Another variation of cased-in adhesive binding, this style is performed as an inline process on a folder, and uses threads intermingled with an adhesive to form a very strong bind. For projects printed with limited ink coverage on uncoated sheets, thread sealing can be a cheaper alternative to Smyth sewing.

Smyth Sewing - This style uses threads woven between all signatures in the book block, which is then married to the case. Although this offers unparalleled strength and durability, Smyth sewing production involves a few more steps than other case binding styles.

Planning Tips

  To ensure proper adhesion on cased-in perfect-bound books, make sure inks and coatings are knocked out at least 3/16” from the spine edge on the first and last pages of the book block.

   Keep the grain direction of all signatures parallel to the bind to prevent wavy, weakened spines. If that isn’t possible, make sure at least the first and last signatures are printed grain-parallel.

  Cased-in production involves the communication of many details between printer and finisher.  Involve us early in the project planning phase, and rest easy knowing your cased-in books will be handled efficiently and properly.