The spiral binding method is one of the more popular binding methods used to bind all kinds and styles of books and booklets. Here are a few FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) to help those wondering if spiral binding is an appropriate or best choice for their project.
Is There a Difference Between Spiral Binding and Coil Binding?
No, spiral binding and coil binding refer to the exact same binding method.
How Does Spiral Binding Work?
Spiral binding uses a coiled length of wire, plastic-coated wire, or just durable plastic formed into a coil and inserted/twisted through holes drilled along the edge (through the front cover, interior pages, and the back cover) of the book to be bound. Once the coil is inserted, the ends of the coil are crimped to keep the coil in place.
What’s the Minimum Number of Pages Required for Spiral Binding?
Two sheets of paper can be spiral bound meaning four pages is the minimum number of pages that can be bound using spiral binding.
What’s the Maximum Number of Pages a Spiral-Bound Book can Contain ?
Spiral binding coils are available in a variety of sizes ranging from 1/4” in to 2” in diameter. The larger the diameter, the more pages can be bound. With a 2” diameter coil, the maximum thickness of the pages to be bound (front/back covers and interior pages) would be approximately 1-3/4”. Depending on the weight of the paper stock used for the front and back covers (120# card stock is .015”), the interior pages (50# Offset and 80# Gloss Text offset are common and measure approximately .0038” in thickness), the number of sheets ( 1.75” divided by .0038” x 2 = # of pages), the maximum number of pages comes out to about 920. However, spiral-bound books of that many pages tend to become too bulky and difficult to handle. Generally, other binding methods (e.g., perfect binding) are recommended for books of that size.
Are Spiral Coils Available in Different Colors?
Yes, plastic coils are available in more than 40 different colors. Black is the most popular and common choice with white and blue blue running second and third respectively.
Are There Size Limitations?
Spiral binding can be used for books ranging from pocket-sized to coffee table-sized behemoths. In addition, books can be bound in either portrait or landscape orientation.
Can Pages Be Replaced in a Spiral-Bound Book?
Technically, yes, it’s possible to remove a coil to replace a page (or pages). But, while it is possible to replace pages in a few books, doing so in hundreds or thousands of books is not practical or advisable.
Can a Spiral-Bound Book Have a Printed Spine?
No. The spiral binding method precludes the possibility of a having a printed book spine.
Does Spiral Binding Offer Advantage Over Other Binding Methods?
- Books utilizing spiral binding can open a full 360° allowing a book to lie completely flat for easy reference.
- Pages are easily turned and do not fall back if not held in place as in perfect bound books.
- Spiral binding is a common binding method widely available with fast turn-around times.
- Is ideal for wall calendars, monthly planners, instruction books, cookbooks, etc.
- Spiral binding can easily accommodate index tabs.
If you have any questions about Spiral Binding, give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
