Bindings and Folds - The Graphic Design: Reference and Specification - page 73

Chapter 8: Bindings and Folds

s ta n da r d b i n d i n g t y p e s
There are many ways to bind loose sheets, folded sheets, or signatures together—each
with its own set of aesthetic, cost, and durability considerations. Here is an overview of
the binding options most readily available. Consult the chart following this section to
compare the cost, durability, and aesthetic attributes of these binding methods.

perfect binding
Signatures are gathered in a stack rather
than nested. The spine side of the stack
is milled to remove the folded edges.
Melted adhesive is applied along the
spine edges of the pages. The cover is
applied while the glue is hot and wrapped
around the topic. The topic is trimmed on
a three-knife trimmer.

case binding ( smythe sewn )
Gathered signatures are assembled and
sewn along the spine. The sewn book
block is then glued on the spine and
trimmed on three sides. The trimmed
book block is then glued to an outer
cover, which is manufactured separately.
The case is held to the topic block by
e n dsheets attached to the first and last
s i gnatures and glued to the inside.

saddle stitch binding
Cover and signatures are nested one
within the other and hung over a chain or
“saddle.” Covers are scored and folded
on the same machine and then laid on
top of the signatures. Cover and signa-
tures are wire stitched (stapled) at the
center of the spine, and then trimmed.

side stitch binding
Cover and individual pages or signatures
are collated and assembled into a stack
and then wire stitched (stapled) at the
bound edge.