November 2004: Organize It with Index Tabs

Index tabs are an ideal method for organizing and separating information.

Do you have a book or loose-leaf binder project that's packed with information? Nothing will help organize it better than index tabs. The ability for users to access information quickly and easily makes index tabs ideal for applications such as technical manuals, user guides and cookbooks, to name a few. Let's take a look at some options and planning concerns when designing a project involving index tabs:

To Mylar or Not to Mylar
The application of Mylar, a protective polyester film, can add value and durability to tabs destined for high-use projects. Mylar is generally applied to both the spine edge and the tab extension to reinforce the areas most stressed by repeated usage. There are a few considerations to keep in mind when planning a project to include Mylar:

Use proper inks and coatings - Mylar is applied to tabs using heated rollers. Their high temperature can damage body copy on tab extensions, resulting in smearing, cracking, or even the complete removal of ink as the hot rollers pass over the piece. When planning to apply Mylar, consult with the ink specialists at your printer to ensure the inks and coatings used on printed tabs won't be harmed.

Avoid bubbles - Inks unable to withstand the heat of Mylar application may evaporate into a gas, which can form bubbles and blisters underneath the Mylar and compromise appearance and adhesion. Excess press powder and other surface dust can cause similar problems. To avoid this dilemma, make sure the surfaces of tab sheets are clean.

Tab Sizing and Cutting
Tabs can be die-cut into virtually any shape and size, but standard sizes can be cut automatically for efficient and cost-effective production. Automatic sizes include 3/8", 1/2" and 3/4" inch tabs extensions. Common tab extension shapes includes square or "S-curve" corners; custom die-cut tab shapes can also be created.

Planning Tip - Tabs inserted into mechanically bound pieces are added after the face trim, eliminating cutting and folding issues. For perfect binding projects, tabs are folded prior to face trimming to ensure the tab extensions aren't cut off. At The Riverside Group, we recommend staggering the fold locations of your tabs to prevent uneven surfaces. Let us help you with your project layout to ensure your index tabs are properly designed.

The Riverside Advantage
At The Riverside Group, we can help you incorporate tabs into mechanically-bound, perfect-bound and loose-leaf products. Our under-one-roof capabilities also include specialty folding, die cutting, foil stamping, embossing, laminating and UV coating to make your projects stand out from the crowd. Friendly and knowledgeable planning and layout advice is always a phone call away to help you make the most of your post press production budget.

In August 2004, The Riverside Group began selecting one lucky graphic arts company every month to win a hand-delivered six-foot Subway sandwich - perfect for feeding the entire office!

Qualifying for our monthly drawing is easy - simply go to our website and register to receive these great tips each month! We'll never misuse your email and you can opt out at any time. Existing customers who have already signed up for our monthly tips will be automatically entered.