What are the advantages of spiral/coil binding vs other binding types?

What are the advantages of spiral/coil binding vs other binding types?

To begin, we will determine what spiral/coil binding is. Spiral and coil binding are interchangeable terms for the same bookbinding method. Webster defines spiral binding as a book or notebook binding in which a continuous spiral wire or plastic strip is passed through holes along one edge.

This popular method joins the pages and cover of a book using a durable plastic coil. The coil is inserted and twisted through small holes punched along the spinal edge of the book's cover and pages.

One of the primary benefits of a spiral-bound book is that the pages can be opened a full 360 degrees (cover to cover). This allows an open book to fold back upon itself and yet still remain flat, so it stays open for easy reference and yet takes up minimal room on a desk or table.

Spiral binding is an excellent choice for reports, sales presentations, proposals, directories, cookbooks, instruction manuals, and maintenance guides. Atlases and travel guides are also commonly spiral bound because they are easier to manage when traveling. You can even create a custom notebook with a unique cover and specialized pages to meet your needs. Coloring books are another excellent option for spiral-bound books since they can be opened 360 degrees. Recipe cards can be typed up and created into a custom cookbook with your family's favorite recipes.


8 Reasons why you should choose spiral/coil binding

  1. Books open 360 degrees (cover to cover) which allows them to fold flat and lie flat for easier reference.

  2. The turn-around time is usually quite fast.

  3. They can be used for short production runs-�for example, 200 books.

  4. Coils come in a variety of diameters to accommodate books of varying thicknesses.

  5. It allows for books to be made in a wide range of sizes-small like a pocket guide or large like a travel atlas.

  6. Plastic coils resist distortion and are available in a variety of colors to complement the book's cover.

  7. This method is excellent for wall calendars and planners because it allows them to hang completely flat against the wall.

  8. This binding style works well with index tabs.

If you have an upcoming print project, give Formax Printing a call at 866-367-6221. Or, if you already know your specs, submit our easy quote form. As always, we look forward to assisting you!

Take care! Rick


About the Author

Rick Stallings is the owner of Formax Printing Solutions in St. Louis, MO. Formax provides a complete array of offset and digital printing services. Specialty areas include book printing, full-color printing, laminated printing, map printing and mailing services. If you ever have a printing question or project you would like to discuss, Rick is always happy to help. He can be reached at 866-367-6221 or by submitting our easy quote request form. Rick and the Formax team have been providing worry-free printing and related services since 1985.

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