Estimated Reading Time
- 5 Min
Highlights
- This comprehensive guide details the significance of forgotten tools that can elevate any binding project. From general binding tools like paper joggers to finishing touches with corner cutters, each tool has its own unique capabilities and uses. This guide also uncovers how they can transform your work by enhancing durability, aesthetics, and craftsmanship.
Whether you’re creating a high-stakes presentation, a meticulously crafted document, or a handmade DIY craft, the binding can make or break the impression you’re hoping for. Binding doesn’t just hold pages together — it presents your work in the best light possible.
While you may be familiar with standard binding tools, there are some forgotten binding tools that can elevate your projects to a whole new level. From bone folders to brayers, this book binding tools list will make your work stand out for all the right reasons.
General Binding Tools
General binding tools are often overlooked but are the backbone of many projects. Let’s consider three tools that can make your projects shine.
Paper Joggers
Ever tried to align a thick stack of staticky papers by tapping them on a table? It’s tedious, time-consuming, and rarely effective. Paper joggers help you get the pages of that hefty annual report or thick training manual perfectly aligned while removing static so everything is in perfect order when you punch or bind the sheets.
Coil Binding Sleeves
Ideal for thicker books, coil binding sleeves give the spine a consistent, smooth curve so the coil insertion process is easier and smoother than ever.
Quick Hardcover Binding Covers
Also known as “pinchbook” covers, quick hardcover binding covers offer a swift alternative to traditional binding methods. With these covers, you can bind your short business proposal or presentation in only 5 seconds with no machine required. The result? A stunning hardcover that screams professionalism and attention to detail.
Cutting and Measuring Tools
With the following four cutting and measuring tools, you can provide precise cuts and crisp folds that transform every project into a masterpiece.
Bone Folder
A bone folder allows you to create sharp, defined creases that can be used for creating easier-to-turn pages or for preparing your pages before saddle stapling/stitching them into a brochure..
Handheld Knife
Whether you’re working on a leather-bound journal, a cloth-covered photo album, or any paper project, a sharp, reliable handheld cutter is a key tool for precision.
Paper Cutter
When creating more than just a one-off book, a paper cutter is a must for precise, uniform cuts. There’s a cutter for every need. Rotary cutters are perfect for trimming a few sheets while stack and electric stack cutters make light work of thick stacks.
Cutting Mat
A cutting mat ensures your work surface remains unscathed during handheld cutting, no matter how many cuts you make. Plus, the mats self-heal, so can last for years, depending on your volume.
Adhesive Tools
Let’s look at three adhesive binding tools for books that can transform your projects from ordinary to extraordinary.
Glue Brush
Creating a notepad or one-off custom journal? The glue brush allows you to apply adhesive evenly so every sheet stays in place. Pair it with the right binding glue for the perfect amount of elasticity and strength.
Binding Glue
Binding glue is specially formulated to provide a strong bond for premium paperback/softcover binding. It keeps every page of your softcover novel in place, even with frequent use. It also remains flexible enough for you to turn pages with ease but strong enough to withstand years of reading.
Padding Glue
If you’re creating notepads or memo pads, padding glue is the perfect adhesive to hold those individual sheets together. You can tear them off easily without compromising the integrity of the remaining sheets. And the glue can dry in as little as 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute projects.
Pressing and Shaping Tools
The best pressing and shaping tools for binding make notepad binding and photobook making or mounting easy. Two of the most commonly forgotten tools for this are the book press and brayer.
Book Press
Often referred to as a padding press, the book press applies the ideal amount of pressure from end-to-end so that your custom notepads hold together firmly while the padding glue dries.
Brayer
A brayer, or hand roller, is an invaluable tool for binding projects. You can use it for many functions, including:
- Smoothing glued surfaces
- Finishing photos
- Spreading ink
Finishing Tools
Finishing tools complete the bind. They’re instrumental in making sure your work stays together and looks great.
Crimping
Finishing your plastic coil bound book isn’t possible without a pair of heavy-duty coil crimpers. Or if not using hand pliers, an electric crimping machine is a perfect, efficient choice for high volumes.
Corner Cutter
The corner cutter can elevate anything from a business report to a photo album. It rounds off sharp paper edges to give your project a softer, more refined look and feel. Rounded bookbinding corners also reduce wear and tear so your project remains in good condition for longer.
Creating the Perfect Bind
When it comes to binding, every tool plays a part in the process. With these forgotten tools, you can create the perfect bind that makes your work stand out for its craftsmanship, durability, and aesthetics.
As one of the largest dealers and manufacturers of finishing and office equipment in North America, Binding101 provides an extensive range of binding supplies to take your projects to the next level.
Ready to elevate your binding game?
Shop Additional Binding SuppliesCall us at (866) 537-2244 or email us at info@buy101.com
