In this Article
Choosing the right type of binding for your business, marketing materials or event can sometimes be down to 1 or many choices depending on the number of pages you need for your book. Depending on what you are after, it can also be tricky to decide which best compliments your work and suits your budget. We will explain the different types of booklet binding, helping you to make an informed decision and ensure your finished product is nothing short of perfect.
1. Stitched (Also known as Stapled)
Stitched binding, commonly referred to as stapled, uses a long metal wire to secure your booklet's pages together. It's akin to how a sewing machine operates - the pages are fed into the machine, neatly aligned, then pierced and threaded with the wire, which is folded into a staple-like shape.
Stitched binding is typically the most cost-effective method, ideal for numerous bound documents such as programmes, prospectuses, and magazines. Stapled is an excellent choice for displaying information at a budget-friendly cost, fast turnaround.
Most print finishers have a limit for stapled booklets due to their thickness. This is usually around 3mm, which accommodates roughly 52 pages at 130gsm. However, at Apprintable, we have invested in new stapled booklet equipment that allows a spine of 4mm. This means we can offer our customers an impressive 96 pages at 130gsm.
2. Perfect Bound
For booklets requiring robust and sophisticated finish, perfect bound books are your answer. This method involves glueing a stack of paper on the spine edge before wrapping it with a cover, resulting in a clean, stylish, and professional finish akin to a paperback book.
Perfect bound books are suitable for heavier types of paper, and the minimum number of pages is typically around 40. However, perfect binding can accommodate a much larger page count, potentially up to 500 - 900 pages depending on the weight of the paper used.
Perfect binding suits booklets that are frequently referred back to, such as catalogues, directories, prospectuses, and self-published novels.
3. Wiro
Wiro binding is incredibly versatile, suitable for a wide range of page counts and paper types. One of the unique advantages of Wiro binding is the ability for pages to lie flat when opened, making it perfect for notebooks, sketch pads, calendars, and planners. The cover can be made of thick card to protect the inner pages and offer a sturdy surface to write on.
4. Thread-Sewn
Thread-sewn binding works best with a high-quality, durable type of paper that can withstand the 'sewing' or 'stitching' process. The minimum or maximum number of pages for this method depends on the thickness of the paper used. However, this method is well-suited to larger publications or books that are frequently used.
While thread-sewn binding may be a more premium option in terms of cost, it delivers a high-quality finish ideal for illustrated books, fiction books, bibles, and catalogues.
5. Booklet binding sizes
| Size | Saddle Stiched | Perfect Bound (PUR) | Wiro Bound | Thread-Sewn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120mm x 120mm | ||||
| 148mm x 148mm | ||||
| A4 (210mm x 297mm) | ||||
| DL (105mm x 210mm) | ||||
| A5 Landscape (105mm x 297mm) | ||||
| A5 Portrait (148mm x 210mm) | ||||
| A6 (105mm x 148mm) | ||||
| 210mm x 210mm |
6. Booklet binding options for paper weight and number of pages
Note that the below is just a guide, it will depend on the microns of from the paper manufacturer and the actual equipment printers have in place. With new equiment invesment we are able to differeniate from other printers and offer more number of pages for saddle stiched booklets.
| Paper Weight | Saddle Stiched | Perfect Bound (PUR) | Wiro |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90 gsm | 4 - 80 pages | 36 - 1208 pages | 4 - 200 pages |
| 100 gsm | 4 - 80 pages | 36 - 1088 pages | 4 - 200 pages |
| 110 gsm | 4 - 80 pages | 36 - 944 pages | 4 - 200 pages |
| 115 gsm | 4 - 80 pages | 36 - 944 pages | 4 - 200 pages |
| 130 gsm | 4 - 76 pages | 32 - 840 pages | 4 - 200 pages |
| 150 gsm | 4 - 68 pages | 32 - 728 pages | 4 - 200 pages |
| 170 gsm | 4 - 60 pages | 28 - 636 pages | 4 - 200 pages |
| 200 gsm | 4 - 56 pages | 24 - 532 pages | 4 - 200 pages |
7. Paper weight available for Booklet binding
| Paper Type | |
|---|---|
| Gloss | |
| Recycled Natural | |
| Silk | |
| Recycled Uncoated | |
| Recycled Silk | |
| Uncoated |
Conclusion
Whether you're looking for the cost-effectiveness and speed efficiency of Stitched binding, the robust elegance of Perfect Bound, the practical versatility of Wiro, or the premium quality of Thread-Sewn binding, understanding these methods will help you make the best decision for your specific needs.
Your final product will be a perfect reflection of your efforts and will accurately represent your brand or business. Remember, Apprintable is here to help make your vision a reality!
If you need further help with how to design a booklet for printing, we have easy-to-follow instructions or you can hire our professional graphic design team to design your booklet for your business!
