November 2006:

Case Binding Materials Specs

Quick – what parts of a case-bound book are critical to its overall strength and longevity? The spine is obvious, but would you guess that the endsheets and board are the key stress points? These materials must be carefully considered during the project planning process to create a strong, durable book. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Endsheet and Board Specifications
Endsheets are typically four-page forms tipped to the first and last signatures of the book block. They are then glued to the insides of the covers. In order to perform their function properly, endsheet stock should be stronger than that of the book block. At The Riverside Group, we recommend uncoated stock of at least 80 lb. text weight for maximum strength and adhesion.

For the case, binder’s board (or chipboard) between 60 pt and 120 pt. should be sufficient to avoid tearing or breaking. As with endsheets, board thickness should increase in proportion with the bulk, weight and trim size of the book.

Planning Tips

Maintain Consistent Trims: Endsheets should be uniform in size as untrimmed signatures to facilitate the binding process.

Knock Out Inks and Coatings: While printed endsheets are popular for many applications, inks and coatings will reduce strength and longevity. Knock out all inks and coatings 3/16" along the spine of both the endsheet and the book block where the end sheets will tip to the first and last pages.

Keep Paper Grain Parallel: Grain direction of endsheets must be parallel to grain direction of the board on case-bound books. As paper accepts or releases moisture after books are bound, it expands and contracts. Endsheets that are cross-grain to the cover board may cause warping and wrinking as these two materials work against each other.

The Riverside Edge
At The Riverside Group, we recognize the importance of details such as endsheet and board specifications to the success of your case binding projects. It’s a level of attention we place into every aspect of your projects. Our range of services include hardcover and softcover adhesive binding and mechanical binding, die cutting, foil stamping, embossing and every service in between. No matter how simple or complex your project, let The Riverside Group exceed your expectations.