Exposed binding

The different methods of exposed binding are great features for bespoke publications and limited editions. The sewing becomes an integral part of the design. Often used for creative projects and portfolios, these methods of binding will create a strong visual impact and give a contemporary feel to any project.

Japanese binding

Min. pages: N/A

Average turnaround time: : 3 weeks for printing + binding

(dependent on quantity and availability in the studio)

Artwork requirement: print-ready PDF, 25 to 30mm margins on the inside of the page for any text and a min. of 10mm for outside, top and bottom, 3mm bleed + crop marks for full page images, high resolution images

This method of binding works beautifully for limited editions, portfolios, journals, notes, or magazines. The soft, flexible cover invites to flick through and feels less static than a hard cover. The sewing is exposed which makes the binding process visible from the outside. This method is a non-adhesive binding where the thread is the only element holding the book together. The pages won't lay completely flat when open and large margins are required for any text close to the inside edge. Different sewing patterns can be achieved such as the tortoise shell or square patterns shown here.

Coptic binding

Min. pages: 72 (total amount must be a multiple of 12 or 16 )

Average turnaround time: : 3 weeks for printing + binding

(dependent on quantity and availability in the studio)

Artwork requirement: print-ready PDF, min. of 10mm margins on the pages, 3mm bleed + crop marks for full page images, high resolution images

This method is a non-adhesive link stitch where covers and pages are sewn together. The naked spine is an elegant way to make the binding an integral part of the book design. The pages lay flat when open which suits double page spreads well. However there will be a small gap between the sections that is to say every 12 or 16 pages.

The coptic binding is particularly well suited for books with high page counts. The higher the amount of pages, the bulkier the spine will be, accentuating the effect of the sewing.

Link stitch

Min. pages: 72 (total amount must be a multiple of 12 or 16 )

Average turnaround time:: 3 weeks for printing + binding

(dependent on quantity and availability in the studio)

Artwork requirement: print-ready PDF, min. of 10mm margins on the pages, 3mm bleed + crop marks for full page images, high resolution images

The link stitch binding is another style of naked spine binding similar to the coptic binding except that the covers are glued onto the book. The pages lay flat when open. The spine is glued after sewing so there won't be any gaps between the sections when the book is open. Like the coptic binding, this method is well suited for bulky contents.

Pamphlet stitch

Suitable for 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28 or 32 pages.

Average turnaround time: : 2 weeks for printing + binding

(dependent on quantity and availability in the studio)

Artwork requirement: print-ready PDF, min. of 10mm margins on the pages, 3mm bleed + crop marks for full page images, high resolution images

This method is a hand sewn booklet where the sewing is running alongside the spine fold.