What do I need to Bind with Wire-O?

Binding with Wire-O is easier that one might think! In fact, all you need is a few items to create really beautiful wire bound books like this...

Ready to start? Let's go!

Here is what you need to bind with Wire-O:

• Wire-O Punch Machine - Wire punching machines typically come in one of two punching patterns; either a 3:1 pitch (three to one) or a 2:1 pitch (two to one). This indicates how many holes their are per inch, and will correspond with the Wire-O binding spine. Some machines will have both, and the holes are either in a square (most common) or round shape. The 3:1 wire binding machines are meant for thinner book binding, up to 9/16" wires, while the 2:1 are meant for a wider range, including the smaller sizes but also allowing for book binding up to 1 ¼" wires. Wire-O binding machines have several features that can make them a better choice; some key features to look for include disengageable punching pins, a wire hanger, and adjustable side guides. Need help choosing? Call our experts at (866) 537-2244 for one-on-one help choosing the best wire binding machine for you.

• Wire-O Closer - Often times a wire closer is already included on your punch machine, but if it is not, you will have to buy a separate wire closing machine. These are usually basic machines that are simply set to the wire binding size you are using, and then a handle is pulled to close your binding wire around the pages. It is the final step with wire binding, and machines are available in both manual models and electric models for high volume wire binding.

• Wire-O Binding Spines - Of course you will also need the wire-o binding supplies / binding spines themselves! Make sure to choose the same pitch as the machine you have to ensure compatibility. Many colors are available, as well as sizes to bind up to about a 1 ⅛" thick book (about 260 sheets*).

• Binding Covers - These are optional, but can really make your wire book stand out. My favorite wire binding covers are these hard binding covers that can easily be punched one-at-a-time with most wire punch machines. Other popular covers include these clear acetate glossy front covers and these thick vinyl backings. But there are really a ton of different binding cover choices, and even custom printed covers are an option.

And that's it! That is all you need to make gorgeous wire bound journals, notebooks, presentations, planners, art pads, and so much more!

About the Author • Mallory Morsa is the product expert and content specialist at Binding101, and has been a valued team member since 2008. She started her career here in customer service, moved onto sales supervisor, product management, and then onto content. She takes a hands-on approach to products, and truly gets to know how every item works before she writes about them, with a goal to give you all of the honest information you need to make a confident buying decision. She has a bachelor's degree with a focus on management and marketing, and has been a writer, photographer, and videographer for many years. In her free time, she loves to read by the pool, volunteer at the local animal shelter in the kitten nursery, and snuggle her three furbabies while she binge watches Netflix.

* Based on 20 lb. bond copy paper. May vary depending on paper stock, book thickness, operator, and other factors.