Binding

Saddle stitch

A method of binding where the folded pages are stitched through the spine from the outside using wire staples.
Recommended use: Usually limited to 64 pages. * page brochures are commonly saddle stitched.
Special comments: Pages should be setup in multiples or signatures of four (4, 8, 12, 16 etc). The staples will be positioned in the middle spread.

Perfect binding

A type of binding where the edges of the sheets are glued to the cover like a telephone book. Recommended use: Larger books that are over 48 pages.
Special comments: The margins in the spine are quite large, this needs to be allowed for the design. No signatures are needed.

Spiral binding

Sometimes called ‘Wiro Binding’. A method of securing loose printed pages using single or double loop wire or plastic that fits into round or rectangular holes in the pages.
Recommended use: Spiral binding is often used for blank notebooks and for reports. Impact Digital stocks plastic coils and metal wiros.
Special comments: Broad spine margins need to be allowed for in the design. The book can consist of any number of pages. No signatures needed.

French fold

A sheet which is usually printed on one side only and then folded with two right angle folds to form a four page uncut section. It can then be bound together using Perfect binding.
Recommended use: This is a premium method of binding. Can be used on small or large brochures or books.

Finishes

Die cut or formecutting

A method of cutting irregular shapes in paper or paperboard using a die. A knife or creasing rule is bent to the desired shape and mounted in timber to make a cutting forme. This is pressed into the stock to cut it to the shape or to form crease lines.

Perforation

A hole or series of holes are punched through paper or paperboard for the purpose of tearing off a part of the printed document. This takes place on a press or a binder machine.

Varnish

A thin, protective, liquid–coating, either matt or glossy that is applied to the stock. A varnish adds protection and enhances the appearance of the product. It can be applied as an all over coating or it can be applied as a spot coating.