When binding a document, there many different binding options that can give a document a different look or feel. Finding the right binding method for your work can add a whole new aesthetic level to the document and give it a more professional image.
A style of binding commonly used in businesses is wire binding, as it helps create a document that looks both stylish and professional. The paper is hole punched down the margin and the wiring has two small loops that go through each hole to bind them together. This style of binding is used to create business reports, manuals and many other documents that require one book. In the home, wire binding is found in household objects such as calendars or first aid manuals.
Saddle stitching is the term given to the process of securing loose pieces of paper with stitches (most usually made of wire) through the crease of the document’s spine. The book can be with or without a cover, the turnaround is generally quite fast and saddle stitching is the most inexpensive method of binding yet. Also, saddle stitching means there is less bulk to a document, an added bonus if any documents are being mailed.
Perfect binding is a type of binding most commonly seen in paperback books. In perfect binding, the different pages are put together, the edges are flattened or roughened, and an adhesive product glues the paper cover to the spine of the book. It has a generally low cost and is seen widely around the world in paperbacks, manuals, telephone directories and some magazines. Perfect binding is usually the choice when a document is too thick to be saddle stitched or bound by wire.
As sad as it is to admit, many documents today are more often bound with stationery items such as staples or paperclips than with any professional binding techniques. These methods of securing documents are indeed a quick fix, but do not look as professional as presenting a conference room with a wire-bound, saddle stitched or perfect bound comprehensive document.
There are many options to consider when thinking about binding a document, and you must decide which one would be the best choice for your work depending on how you would like your work to come across. Each binding method has its benefits and a professional looking document can be the next step in a professional outlook.
