May 2003: Mechanical Binding Options

Mechanical binding is perhaps the most versatile binding option available. All mechanical binding styles offer layflat capabilities that make books easier to use. Design options such as foldouts, inserts, die cuts and index tabs are a breeze to include. Mechanical binding is ideal for projects that include a variety of substrates, such as thick and thin stocks, synthetic paper and plastic sheets. There are also plenty of cover options, including semi- and fully-concealed and cased-in, that give you more design  flexibility.

Wire-O - Wire-O binding is a versatile and attractive binding style that uses loops of pre-formed metal wire to bind the book. Wire-O bound books not only lay flat, they fold 360 degrees for single-hand use. Cover options such as semi- and fully-concealed and cased-in give you even greater design flexibility.

Combination runs of Wire-O and perfect-bound books are a popular option for projects such as annual reports, where both a standard and "elite" version of a project are desired. These projects often require only minimal layout changes between versions. At The Riverside Group, we can trim the spines off perfect-bound book blocks, and then punch and Wire-O- bind inline for an efficient workflow.

Plastic spiral - Plastic spiral binding involves winding plastic wire through punched holes along the spine of a book. Plastic spiral-bound books "step up" when opened, which can skew the appearance of crossover images. However, the plastic binding elements resist crushing, making this style suitable for high-abuse applications.

Plastic comb - This binding style uses a thick comb to bind the book. Plastic comb does not step up when opened, making it ideal for projects with crossover images. In addition, plastic combs can be printed to allow titles to be read from a bookshelf.

When laying out books for mechanical binding, be sure there is a sufficient margin between the punched holes and your copy. For Wire-O books binding 3:1 (three holes per inch), make sure your copy is at least 3/8" from the binding edge. For books binding 2:1, that margin should be 9/16".

To determine wire size for Wire-O or plastic spiral-bound books, add 1/8" to the book bulk. Be sure to use a dummy made with the actual production stock to be sure you get an accurate bulk measurement.

The Riverside Edge

Mechanical binding is all about options, and The Riverside Group has plenty! Our mix of equipment allows us to handle both short and long production runs. Looking for a truly unique binding style? Ask us about our "under one roof" advantage for cased-in Wire-O binding.