Binding Basics

Use cases for sewn bound products Sewn binding is a popular method for premium printed products with exceptional quality. However, this option can increase the cost and take longer to produce. Thread sewing ensures a greater resistance to wear from years of frequent use, and sewn binding including adhesives provides more reinforcement to the spine and page stability than sewn binding alone. Publications produced through sewn binding are most often used for hardcover or casebound printed products because sewn binding results in a more durable, layflat books. Unlike perfect binding, sewn binding is suitable for publications with heavier papers. Enhancements can include edge treatments, headbands and bookmarks. Edge treatments include enhancements like edge staining and gilding, where dyes, colorants or gold leaf is applied to the non-spine edges of the book block. Headbands are strips of decorative cotton or silk that are attached to the top and bottom of the spine, and bookmarks are cord or ribbons which are attached to the top of the spine to serve as ornamental placeholders.

Since Smyth sewn binding sews each signature together one at a time, the binding it creates has more flexibility. If that spine is adhered to the liner and not the spine of the cover, the product will have the ability to lay flat. Layflat capabilities are important when there are images or spreads that span the gutter between the pages. This is great for art portfolios and coffee table books where design and longevity are equally important factors. Weighing the options When considering sewn binding for printed products, important variables to be considered are page count and layflat capabilities. The Smyth sewing process allows flexibility for the pages due to the layflat nature of the product. Sewn binding creates a durable finished product, and it is the

Through a special method offered for Smyth softcover books, there is a layflat option which does not glue the spine of the book block directly to the spine of the cover.

most suitable binding technique if a long-lasting, professional publication is desired. This is particularly beneficial when its readers will appreciate the craftsmanship of the finished piece.

Binding Basics

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