Manuals, catalogs, and other books used in business, are generally manufactured using one of two binding methods. To determine the best option for your book here’s a brief description of each process:
SADDLE STITCHING
Saddle Stitched books are created by nesting folded pages that have wire staples on the crease of the book’s spine.
PERFECT BINDING
Perfect Bound books are created by gluing the pages inside of the cover at the spine with a strong, flexible adhesive.
Page Count is often a determining factor in choosing between the two. There is some overlap in page count, so other determining factors are listed below.
Saddle Stitching is limited to thinner books with a lower page count because the wire staples must be pushed through the paper. 8 – 64 pages is ideal depending on the paper thickness.
Perfect Binding is limited to thicker books because it needs a thicker spine for the glue to adhere to. 36 pages and higher is ideal for perfect binding. As long as the book is over 1/8″ thick, it can be several inches thick like a phone directory.
Spine printing – Each of these options is very different.
Saddle Stitched books do not have a flat surface to print on so spine printing is not an option.
Perfect Binding books allow for printing on the spine so that when the book is on a shelf it’s more easily identifiable.
Lay Flat Pages – Consider the reader’s experience.
Saddle Stitched books generally lay flatter when the book is opened, allowing for better crossover artwork viewing.
Perfect Binding books tend to close back up unless you hold the pages open. A hinged, lay-flat option is available on perfect bound books that costs more and adds to the production time.
Shelf Life – Your choice in binding options can mean the difference between getting one order or saved for future orders.
Saddle Stitched catalogs are frequently mailed for the quick, one time Holiday orders. Then they are typically tossed in the recycling bin.
Perfect Binding catalogs for B2B products are intended for use throughout the year. Perfect Binding creates a sense of permanence. Consider how many old National Geographic magazines you can still find at garage sales vs. old Popular Mechanics magazines?
Production Time – Saddle Stitched books are quicker to manufacture
Cost – Saddle Stitching is typically the more affordable of the two options.
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