We all know that we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but more often than not we end up doing it anyway. Authors will especially take a great deal of care and pride in the visual representation of their books. So, after opting for high-quality lithographic or digital printing, it will be time to consider the best options for binding. Making the best choice between different binding methods means considering a number of factors – some aesthetic and some practical. At Cambrian Printers, we offer a range of different book binding services in order to ensure that your books look fantastic every time. Here are the different binding options you can choose for your book at Cambrian Printers.
Section Sewn Bound
This type of binding truly is the hallmark of library quality for books. Section sewn books are famously durable and usable, which makes it the perfect binding for books that are intended to be read time and time again. Here, thread is used to sew through the folded signatures of the book. The signatures are made by printing on large sheets and folding into groups of pages, around 16 to 24 at a time. Each signature is sewn individually with threads going through each page several times. The threads are then tied and cut off. Once the pages are bound by the thread, the book block is strengthened using adhesive on the spine as well as reinforced fabric backing.
Perfect Bound
Amongst self-published authors, perfect binding is a very popular binding method. Instead of using staples, perfect bound books use book binding glue that holds the pages together. This method is best used on books that are using a heavier weight paper for the cover with a gloss finish. Perfect bound is ideal for displaying any cover artwork whilst keeping the interior matte papers together, without the page bend that is created by staples. There is no folding in the perfect binding process. Instead, all the pages of the book are collated into a stack, or book block. The block will then be clamped together and edge-ground. The cover is then hinge scored and put on the block and finished with a final knife trim.
Saddle Stitched
If you are producing a softcover book that has relatively few pages, saddle stitching may be the best choice. Despite the name, you won’t actually find any thread holding your book together here. After printing, the press sheets will be cut, scored, collated and stapled throughout the spine. The edge of the book opposite the binding will be cut straight. If you are creating a softcover book that’s relatively temporary, the cover can be used using the same type of paper as the inner sheets. However, most opt for a heavier paper to create a sturdier cover that won’t be easily torn or damaged.
Case-Binding
Case binding is in fact very similar to perfect binding, but a hard cover is used rather than a soft cover. The hard cover will usually be covered in a book cloth or leather with a title foil stamped on the front cover and spine. The inside pages are stacked and glued just like the perfect bound method. The stack will then be glued to the inside of the case, which will truly protect the valuable pages. You will get the perfect elegance of a hardcover book, and the durability of a perfect bound book. This is the perfect option for those who like the idea of adding a dust jacket to protect the cloth cover of the book. It is also ideal for displaying customised cover art as the hardcover makes the perfect canvas.
