Saddle-stitch binding is the least expensive and most popular method used to bind books, booklet, etc.. Here are a few FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) to help those wondering if saddle-stitch binding is an appropriate or best choice for their project.
Why is it Called Saddle-Stitch Binding?
Using staples to hold pages together it seems a more appropriate name would be the staple-binding method. Actually, the method is named after the saddle-like device paper is draped before the staples are inserted in the folds of the paper.
How Does Saddle-Stitch Binding Work?
Saddle-stitch binding uses wire staples inserted through the folded, center crease of sheets of paper in a book or booklet. Printed pages to be bound together are gathered together, partially folded over a saddle-like device and stapled through the center. The sheets are then fully folded and edges are trimmed, if necessary, to create a tidy, neat appearance to the finished book.
What’s the Minimum Number of Pages Required for Saddle-Stitch Binding?
A minimum of two sheets of paper (e.g., front/back/inside covers and interior pages) stapled together will create an 8-page book.
What’s the Maximum Number of Pages for a Saddle-Stitch Bound Book?
The maximum number of pages in a saddle-stitch bound book varies according to the weight of the paper used in the printing of the book. Generally, the upper limit is somewhere in the neighborhood of 64-pages (16 folded sheets) with standard text weights of paper stock. Heavier paper stocks would necessitate fewer pages while lighter stocks may extend the number of pages closer to the 100-page mark. With too many pages, the staples become ineffective at holding the sheets together and the book becomes too bulky and cumbersome to fold properly.
How Many Staples Are Used Per Book?
The standard for most book/booklets is two staples. Larger books may require three or four staples; smaller pocket-sized books can get by with one staple.
Are There Size/Dimension Limitations?
Saddle-stitch binding can be used with books of all sizes and shapes. Plus, it can be used with any book orientation (portrait, landscape, square).
Can Pages Be Replaced in a Saddle-Stitch Bound Book?
Not without removing staples and re-stapling in a different spot along the folded crease of the book. Hence, it might be possible to replace a page in one or two books, but doing so in greater quantities is not practical.
Can a Spiral-Bound Book Have a Printed Spine?
No. The saddle-stitch binding method creates, in essence, books without a spine.
Are There Benefits to Saddle-Stitch Binding?
Yes, there are a few primary benefits to saddle-stitch binding:
- It’s the least expensive/costly binding method.
- Turnaround times on projects are quick as saddle-stitch binding is a simple, straightforward operation and a widely available service provided by most commercial printers.
- It can be used for small or large books (e.g., pocket guides or road atlases).
- Saddle-stitch books can also be three-holed punched along the spine to be inserted in three-ring binders.
- Adds no significant weight to a book/booklet which keeps postage costs down when mailing.
If you have any questions about Saddle-Stitch Binding, give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
