Printing Knowledge:

Understanding Book Binding Types

There are many different methods of bookbinding, each with its own unique characteristics and purpose. Here is an overview of some of the most common types of bookbinding:

This image displays what the spine of a book looks like when it is a softcover book. This binding method is also called perfect binding.

Softcover

This is the most common method of binding books. In perfect binding, the pages of the book are glued together at the spine, creating a smooth, flat spine. This type of binding is best for books with a large number of pages, as the spine can support a large amount of weight without breaking. Click here to see our Softcover Diagram.

This image displays what the spine of a book looks like when it is a saddle stitched book.

Saddle Stitch

In saddle stitching, the pages of the book are folded in half and stitched together at the spine using a single continuous thread. This method is commonly used for small books, such as pamphlets or magazines. Click here to see our Saddle Stitched Diagram.

This image displays what the spine of a book looks like when it is a hardcover PUR glued book. The difference between this binding method and hardcover sewn is that glue is used to adhere the pages to the cover.

Hardcover (PUR Glued)

Adhesive is pushed against the binding edge of the book block first in one direction, then the other, thereby fanning or separating the edges of the sheets. Boards are then attached to the book blocks which creates a hard cover. These boards are covered with leather, cloth or a printed cover. Click here to see our Hardcover (PUR Glued) Diagram.

This image displays what the spine of a book looks like when it is a hardcover sewn book. The difference between this binding method and hardcover PUR glued is that the pages are all sewn together then attached to the cover.

Hardcover (Sewn)

In case binding, the pages of the book are sewn together and then attached to a hardcover, which is made of stiff cardboard covered in cloth or paper. This method is often used for high-quality books, as it creates a durable and attractive binding. Click here to see our Hardcover (Sewn) Diagram.

This image displays what the spine of a book looks like when it is a coil bound book. The metal coils are circling around the holes punched into the side of the book.

Coil Bound Binding

In spiral binding, the pages of the book are held together by a spiral of metal or plastic that is inserted through holes punched along the spine of the book. This method is commonly used for notebooks, as it allows the book to lie flat when opened and the pages to be easily turned. Click here to see our Coil Bound Cover Diagram.

This image displays what the spine of a book looks like when it is a ring binding book. The rings are circling around the holes punched into the side of the book.

Ring Binding

In ring binding, the pages of the book are held together by a series of rings, similar to those used in a three-ring binder. This method is commonly used for notebooks and other books that need to be updated frequently, as the pages can be easily added or removed.

This image displays what the spine of a book looks like when it is a comb binding book. The comb teeth are circling around the holes punched into the side of the book.

Comb Binding

Allows the book to lay flat using what looks like a large plastic comb. The “teeth” of the comb are then looped through the cover and book block along the length of spine.

This image displays what the spine of a book looks like when it is a plastic coil bound book. The plastic coils are circling around the holes punched into the side of the book.

Plastic Coil Binding

Allows the book to lay flat using a single plastic coil which is weaved through the cover and book block along the length of the spine.

This image displays what the spine of a book looks like when it is a semi concealed binding book. The wire coils are obscured by the paper cover wrapping around the coils. Except for the back of the book where the top of the coils are poking through.

Semi Concealed Binding
(Front & Back Views Shown)

Allows the book to lay flat using a wire coil of double loops which is weaved through the cover and book block along the length of the spine. Coil is concealed on the front by the cover and revealed on the back.

Each of these bookbinding methods has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best method for a particular book will depend on its intended use and the needs of the reader. No matter which method is chosen, however, the end result should be a book that is durable, attractive, and easy to read.

Click here for more helpful tips & tricks.