~ by Paul Brunet, Friesens Bindery Manager
When it comes to creating a book that stands the test of time, there are crucial elements to consider such as the different methods of binding and the types of adhesives that are available. At Friesens, we pride ourselves on delivering a quality product that our customers have come to expect in each and every book. Whether you’re looking for a durable hardcover or a flexible softcover, our range of binding methods will create a beautiful book that will last a lifetime. Let’s take a closer look at book binding and why Friesens is the go-to place for quality printing.
PERFECT BINDING
Perfect binding is a popular method where printed and folded sections are collated, and the spine is prepared by either grinding all the pages loose or leaving notches from the folders, depending on the customer’s request. Hot melt glue is then applied to the prepared spine, and side glue is applied to the first and last page of the collated signatures. The softcover is then pressed onto the hot glue, and the book is trimmed on all three sides to create a finished product.
Pros: Easy to produce and the books hold together very well
LAYFLAT PERFECT BINDING
Layflat perfect binding follows the same preparation as regular perfect binding, with an additional step of applying stretch paper to the spine after the pages have been glued together with hot melt. This prevents the cover from being glued to the spine, allowing the book to lay flat when opened.
Pros: These books will lay and stay flat when opened
SEWN BINDING
Sewn binding involves sewing the folded and collated signatures together using one of our various sewing machines. Once all the sections are sewn together, they form what is known as a book block. For hardcover books, endsheets are applied, and the spine is glued together. For softcover books, the endsheet process is omitted.
Pros: Creates a very strong binding
LAYFLAT SEWN BINDING
Layflat sewn binding is similar to sewn binding, but after gluing the spine with hot melt glue, capping paper is applied to prevent the spine from adhering to the cover. This results in a void between the cover and the spine of the book block, allowing the book to open and stay flat.
Pros: The books will open up and stay flat
Choosing the right binding method and adhesive is an essential part of the book printing process so that the finished product not only looks professional but stands the test of time. At Friesens, we are happy to offer many options to suit your needs, so whether you opt for perfect binding, layflat perfect binding, sewn binding, or layflat sewn binding, you can trust Friesens to deliver exceptional quality every time.
Paul Brunet has been a Friesens Employee-Owner for 27 years. He started in the sheeting department as a sheeting operator’s assistant and driving the forklift to unload truckloads of paper rolls. From there he moved to the press room as a feeder man, then as an operator running multiple presses. For the last 15 years he has been the Bindery Manager at our Industrial Park facility in Altona.
